Remnants of a World that Was (Warhammer: The Old World X RWBY)

[Yin-Yin Fan]

"'Sunny Little Dragon?'"

Taiyang smiled sheepishly to his aunt and father. Family was… always awkward, but Patch was as peaceful as they could make it and he worried enough for both him and Raven getting the house in perfect order for them. But of course his Aunt noticed the name of her niece right away, just from an offhand mention…

"It has a good sound to it." his father replied with a faint smile, turning to Tai. "Yang Xiao Long… a fine addition to the family…"

The white-haired woman simply gave a disapproving 'hmm' as they made their way. Tai could already hear the mental checklist in his aunt's head and the lecture he would have that night (possibly a few nights if she decided to comment on the defensive state of Patch again.) The house was the 'team home', and so traces of all of them could be found, even with Taiyang's careful considerations.

"Summer is still away on that Business, is she not?"

"She should be back soon." Tai replied, though if he was honest he wasn't sure… Ozpin business tended to be like that.

"She keeps busy." His father commented. "And Raven?"

"You can ask me yourself!... Dammit, no Yang please i-"

Tai winced… Oh Raven… he loved her, he really did but 'respectful' was not a word that described her. His aunt already seemed to be calming herself while his father's face had a sympathetic, if amused expression as they opened the door to the nursery where the young dragon-blooded cried and clung to the ebony-haired mother who looked like she had not slept in the last week.

Little Yang Xiao long already had traces of her father and grandmother's blonde hair, and at the moment showcased the ample energy only a child could muster to Raven's frustration.

"Zhao, Miao…" Raven greeted, more focused on her bundle of tears and getting her to calm down.

"Branwen." Miao replied, more focused on the babe, though she kept her distance. Tai wasn't sure if she was nervous about Yang, or just didn't want to approach Raven. Zhao meanwhile came close to see his granddaughter along with Tai. Yang's iliac eyes stared back at Zhao, tears starting to slow.

"So, this is the sunny little dragon? You're giving your mother quite the headache aren't you?"

Zhao's smile grew small… "Welcome to the family, Yang Xiao Long…"

Raven wearily looked to Tai, who gave his best reassuring smile. "I'm not going to have another speech about 'the great honor' of it, am I?'

"Tempting as it would be to remind you," Miao began. "It would be more important to remind Yang of that… soon."

"She's only a few weeks old." Tai said. Miao nodded, and Zhao cleared his throat.

"You know how she is Tai; she's been holding in the storm since you were born… and I think any poor descendents of Yang will deal with it too if she has the mind to see it."

"Unlike some family members I could name," Miao replied. "I understand the worth of being born to Dragons."

Raven rolled her eyes. "Right, yeah, I got that…" Raven said, ready to put Yang back in her crib as the baby yawned in her mothers arms… sure to wake her up in the next few hours.

—-

Miao… didn't know her mother very well, but she knew the moon; she was the Daughter of the Moon Empress after all. She was a presence in her life whether she wanted it or not… But Remnant's moon was broken, supposedly for so long no one questioned it. The shards hung there like the grisly remains of a once great beast…

A bitter reminder, even here. And yet the stars around it… they were as beautiful as the ones her father taught her about back in the Celestial Palace…

The sound of footsteps echoed; not her brother's or his son. They had a grace to them, but also a distinct temper… Raven Branwen.

"Yang slumbers?"

"For the love of the Brothers can't you just talk normally for five minutes?"

Once she might have tried to have her flogged or find some more appropriate punishment for disrespect, but the Winds of Magic did not flow strongly in Remnant and while she was still a dragon… that power was not as easily available to her as she should have liked. Her true form was in reach, but ever so far away all at once… so Raven didn't fear her as she should.

It was annoying but Miao Ying got over it after the third familial inspection.

Mostly.

"I speak formally out of respect for a… family member."

Raven huffed. "Well, Yang is asleep, Tai and Zhao are just talking… and you're out here looking at the moon."

"And you came to annoy me?"

Raven sat down next to the dragon. "That's called being family… and the fact I have to explain it to you is saying something…"

… She had a point. "This isn't Cathay or whatever you called it, Zhao at least can act like he's… normal."

"No he's quite mad." Miao replied. "But it helped him adjust…"

"And you're having trouble with… what exactly? Didn't Zhao mention you guys were here since…"

"I thought it was impolite to ask a woman her age, Raven." Miao replied… then looked at her, the old edge of the Ruler of the Northern Provinces in her voice. "Why are you out here, really?"

"I can't enjoy the night air with my Aunt-in-Law?" Raven replied.

"Back in Grand Cathay," Miao Ying began, her voice cold. "I protected the Great Bastion, a Wall that kept our monsters away from us. My father's Magic and body were tied to it, but it was I, and the mortal under my command that kept it safe."

Raven tried to look stoic but she could sense how this conversation would go. Miao Ying continued. "My brother is mad. At times I believe he even thinks he is a human being or those 'faunus' types, but he and I are not so different when it comes to understanding humanity… we both know what a deserter looks like."

Raven let out a breath. "W-what do you-"

"You think you know your enemy, the Grimm or whatever force leads to it? And you think that they have already won… but you must defend your family but the monkey-brained side of yourself wants to flee… to hide and hope it won't find you…" Miao smiled. "Or do you have a justification with your tribe? And simply want an opportunity to slip away?"

Raven stood up and growled. "I don't have to take this from you."

"So am I correct?"

Raven almost walked away until Miao spoke. "But you have loyalty to something… the Branwen Name? The Tribe?"

"... I should have figured you'd have found out."

"Most people tend to adopt an alias… but you were always prideful. You'd be surprised what one can learn on your Scrolls…" Miao commented.

Raven stared back at the dragon. "... Alright, what do you want?"

"Family is a cornerstone… even the branches with a sordid history." Miao said as diplomatically as she could. "Even your brother seems to understand this. If your tribe is important I will be willing to help if it means having you remain here."

"... But you want to get rid of the way we live."

"If you wish to live you need to achieve harmony. For all their many faults, they are still human… they depend on humanity just as much. The grimm and whatever force leads them are not so different to enemies I have fought, and only in harmony can it be defeated."

"She can't be defeated."

Miao nodded, and Raven for once was unsure about Miao. "Some people can only be opposed. You seem to find enough to oppose me."

"Because for all the 'Dragon dragon dragon!" shit you're just an obnoxious in-law." Raven's eyes narrowed. "... you won't even name whatever it is you ran-"

"I. Do not.. Run."

Thunder crackled in her hands for a brief moment and Raven realized she had best change the subject. "... I'm sorry."

"I will overlook your insolence for now." Miao replied. "... Yang is dragon-blooded, she is… something more than human, but still human and that requires a human touch. Yours and Taiyang's. Even if she grows opposed to you, you made the choice to marry into the family… And Taiyang unwittingly to yours."

Raven sighed. "You sound like Summer, you know that?"

"Summer would have been my choice… she understands that the odds of victory are possible, but protecting what you have is important… Think my offer over, Raven of Branwen…"

Raven frowned, entering the house as Miao went back to star gazing…
She could wait for an answer.

—-

Zhao had a scroll in his hands, thinking back to the mother of his newest son, her image in his hands. She had the blonde hair and iliac eyes of her granddaughter…

His siblings all called him mad for his hobbies, being close to the Maw and the Warpstone Desert, but it was the fact he loved his people… a people who were all gone. Father was gone, and Mother-

Thoughts on the past where… the problem with being an immortal, he thought. The weight of it and its problems all barreled down on you as time moved on and on. By his Mother he even missed Yin-Yin and Yuan…

Taiyang would, if he had any say, live his life in peace. The Grimm of this world where dangerous, yes, but much like the beasts of his home they could be killed. They were not the work of the Great Enemy… though he didn't fault his sister's initial confusion after…

He shook his head. Thoughts, thoughts and thoughts racked against the mind… He was glad they were all asleep… well, his sister was likely going to moon-gaze for a while but…

A sound, familiar footsteps, tired…

He stood from the couch, the scroll forgotten. As he opened the door for Summer, who quickly embraced him. It took him a moment to return the hug; people on Remnant were much more… touchy than Cathay… It was welcoming.

"Had good hunting?"

"As good as ever." Summer said, eyes tired and Zhao could already see that she had been dealing with tiredness and wounds from the hunt. Even with Aura and her Semblance (Fascinating things he was trying very much to study since Taiyang's aura flared…) she was still mortal…

"Yang and the others are resting…" Zhao paused. "... it's an… odd feeling to think about."

In truth, Yang wasn't his first Granddaughter… indeed he was the one with the most sons and daughters in the Old World, But… well, he had big responsibilities… In Remnant, he was free to live in the now, no matter how much his home wanted to claw him back…

But that came with it's own pains.

Summer sat across from him, a silvery-white look in her eyes, the same that he and his sister possesd though… not quite the same, and a smile that never could quite leave her features. "So… is Yang going to grow up like a human or-"

"Well… ah, that's tricky for me to explain." Zhao began. "... Humans to us tend to… seem to grow too fast. I expect the time for me will go by and Yang will grow as humans do."

Summer nodded. "I wonder if she can become a dragon?... honestly i'd pity Raven then…" the thought made her smile.

"Many have tried but… the blood gets diluted." Zhaos said sadly. "... and even now the true form is hard to take. Your Maidens don't use the Winds… they aren't even here… For good and ill." He admitted. "However… I have a feeling Miao will still try to treat her like a dragon…. Tai learned the hard way."

They shared a mischievous smile. "I never understood why Tai was so stiff until I met your sister… though I doubt she could make Yang like that…"

"We'll see… I hope Raven's willfulness rubs off on her." Zhao chuckled. His sister expected perfection and aloofness… Raven could do Aloof but her own brand was… heh. Honestly Taiyang could do better, but the heart was a tricky thing.

He knew he could have done far better, after all.

—-

Yang was an infant, but she had some awareness; the sound of her mother's heartbeat, the feeling of lukewarm blankets… but she dreamed.

And in those dreams, she saw something she didn't know quite yet, but she knew all the same; after all it was a bright, young dragon.

The image faded and in her infant mind it was forgotten about as soon as it appeared and left her mind's eye.

 

[Yin-Yin Fan]

"Grandpa? I'm bored!"

Zhao looked up from his book, smiling as the young Yang Xiao Long approached. It was her birthday just a few days ago, and he had been hoping that her gifts would occupy her… unfortunately, as summer had tried to warn him, Yang was so very excited to spend time with 'Grandpa and Great-Auntie' and so his reading on Remnant Alchemy, or as they called it Chemistry had to be set aside.

"Well, we can't have that now can we? Hmm… What do you want to do?"

"Oh! A story!" Yang beamed. "Please? Momma Summer says you have the best stories!"

Ah, so that was it… well, he certainly did have a wealth of them. ".. Have i ever told you about King… Gre-Greasy?"

"Daddy told me 'bout him!" Yang said jumping a bit as Zhao picked her up to set on his lap. "He was an Ogre, the biggest one ever!"

"Oh yes, he was, he was. Massive, so massive he had to be carried everywhere by…." He shook his head. "Nevermind that. I met him, you see."

Yang paused, head tilting. "B-but he's in stories. Momma told me Ogers aren't real."

Zhao shook his head. "You'll never have to worry about one of those here, that I promise you. But back where Aunt Miao and I lived, I had to deal with them."

Yang sat enraptured by the story… or well, stories. Zhao told her of how he had once, while looking for something for his alchemy. Yang didn't follow much of the terms, being still under ten years old, but she did follow that her grandfather and a few of his men went into a desert-like mountain, where some Ogers tried to take them to get money.

"Now, I knew King Greasy for a while, but you have to understand he was the smartest one… and he wasn't very bright himself. So, thinking they could make a meal of us, they surrounded the caravan and demanded to give up our prize or half of us."

"What were they gonna do?"

"Well, how do you think the Ogres got so big?"

Yang let out a gasp, but he patted her head. "Now, it's scary, yes, but we are Dragons. So I told them that I would not allow them to lay a single finger on them.' At the time, Zhao would think to himself, it was more about the materials; they were dangerous, and needed…

But Yang was still a child and he did say that for his Alchemists and Peasant helpers. Always best to inspire the mortals, that was a lesson he hoped for her to pick up on. "With discipline and focus, we managed to overcome the brutes: their minions didn't last long against me and my Alchemists, the mountains rocked with the force of the Iron Dragon that day, Yang"

Yang's eyes went big as dinner plates, imagining the true form of her grandfather… something she had never seen, but felt and knew. She imagined him single handedly stopping the ogers while his troops watched on and cheered.
It was mostly accurate; the horror of Zhao underestimating the amount of Rhinoxen cavalry that burst into his spearmen, the ogre brutes picking up and devouring them mid-battle, and the Alchemists focusing on protecting the supplies.

He lost a lot of good people. Returning to the true-self was necessary to keep them focused, in awe…
He paused his story, looking at his Granddaughter's face. "I won of course, and had a good laugh with Greasus over it."

"Can I be like you one day?"

Zhao laughed. "Maybe… but why not try being better?"

Yang tilted her head. "B-But… I'm not that strong yet… and I can't turn into a dragon…"

"Neither can your father…. It takes a lot for me to become one these days…"

Zhao put a hand on the girl's shoulder. "You have dragon-blood, but you have Raven in you too. Human… In my time, children like you were proud, powerful…" he smiled. "Remnant is glad to have you, dragon or not."

Yang frowned, and her next words put Zhao in deep thought. "But… I know I can be a dragon…"
—-
Ruby was at the age of toddling now; the silver-eyed child looked at everything in wonder as she took shaky steps under the watchful eyes of Summer, Miao… and Raven.

Raven and Summer were trying to hide something from Miao.. well, half-heartedly, suspecting she suspected something about the Silver-Eyed child who looked like Summer….

It was lucky for both Summer and Raven that Ruby was adorable and hopefully would distract her aunt from thinking too closely about her. Miao for her part was content to walk along the path, the summer sun above her and Patch's breeze was calming… and the newest addition of the extended family walked with her.

"Signal should be good enough for Yang, should she pursue the huntress career." Miao said. "And Taiyang should be able to keep on her case if he truly wishes…"

Raven rolled her eyes. "He can handle Yang. she's, like, five."

"Six actually." Summer corrected.

"... She was five last I checked."

Miao looked at Raven and tutted. "You should be paying more attention."

Ruby stopped quickly, her eyes darting to a small bird before bolting after it. The three watched her stumble into the ground as the bird flew away. The girl reached for it, but her attention was stopped as she was picked up by Miao.
Miao studied the toddler who looked back with silvery eyes and stuck her tongue out with a 'blep', though she seemed happy. "... She'll grow out of that, yes?"

"She's a toddler."

Summer laughed. "Honestly she should enjoy it, she can only be so carefree for so long…"

Miao handed Ruby to her mother… even at her age, the resemblance was strong… but there was enough of something else to make a distinction… But what that was…

Ruby smiled in her mother's arms, but still looked at her sort-of auntie and stuck out her tongue if only to get the reaction out of her. "She will have to start some sort of education soon however."

"Maybe in your time." Summer replied. "To me I think Ruby needs to master talking first, isn't that right Ruby?"

"It will pass before you know it."

Summer's smile was there, though her eyes were distant. "I know…"

Raven continued on the path, clearing her throat so they would follow. "You can't make them grow faster… or maybe you could, I dunno."

"I perhaps would be less careful if I knew who her father was." The dragon idly commented. "... You have been awfully quiet for such a long time."

Summer's smile gave nothing away. "I understand your concern, but Ruby is my daughter, and that's as far as it needs to be."

"If she is Zhao or Taiyang's daughter-" Miao said, which made Raven's face turned red and she began to stammer. "Then she has the blood of the Dragon Emperor, along with your odd mutation. If not, then the most likely candidate is Raven's brother… in which case her luck might be… unharmonious."

Raven coughed. "W-why would you think Zhao, of all people, would be the father?!"

Miao turned her head, the cabin in view. "Oh, he hasn't regaled you with tales of his exploits? Half the Dragon-blooded could be traced to him alone."

"Funny as it would be-" Summer replied, seemingly more interested in Raven's flabbergasted expression. "He's way too old to me~"

"So that leaves-"

"You know I do travel a lot. You might never know who her father is…" Summer continued, interrupting the dragon. "... Please Miao, what matters is that she's Ruby Rose."

"Then you would have said so." Miao narrowed her eyes. "I've encountered many schemers in my time Summer, but… why? What motive do you have for this?"

"It's her privacy." Raven interjected, too quickly…

No that was… that was even more impossible…

Summer and Ruby were laughing all the while as they returned home.
—-
"You didn't put Dust in this one, did you?"

"Oh no…" Zhao paused for a moment and tried his drink. "No, you can drink safely!"

Qrow wearily took a look at Tai, who smiled sheepishly. Neither wanted a repeat of Graduation… But Zhao had a talent for brewing and neither were exactly too hesitant once they were sure he hadn't decided to 'experiment'.
All of them took a drink… Qrow coughing a bit. "Never gonna get used to this… you two don't have limits."

"Perks of Dragon Blood." Zhao said, pouring himself another and Qrow taking another, Taiyang just set his glass down. "It's a less appreciated part of the art, but it is a fun one…"

"Shame you never took much interest in it." Qrow said offhandedly to Tai. "It's good."

Tai laughed a bit. "Miao didn't like me taking much interest… Speaking of which should we-"

Zhao shook his head. "My sister was never fond of drinks and… She is star gazing."

Qrow and Tai quieted down a bit. "... When are we going to tell Yang?"

"Some things can't be secrets forever I suppose but it is… not an easy thing to tell." Zhao said. "... Yang asked me to tell her a story today… Started about an old friend before one of my… misadventures dragged me aside, though she didn't seem to mind. The details were sanitized, of course but…"

He sighed, the Iron Dragon recalling his home, Grand Cathay, its glories and its oft overlooked failings… Remnant was better off in so many ways. Looking at his son with a smile that bore no happiness. "Yang wants to be a dragon… What do you think of that, Tai?"

"She's barely six years old, I had that phase too."

Qrow shrugged. "Used to want to fly as a kid… we all had impossible dreams…"

Zhao nodded in sympathy. "... My sister looks at Cathay with rose-colored glasses. She defended it with her life… and the lives of countless others. Pushing Taiyang to be a huntsmen and her own little work with Ozpin… Our Father and the Bastion gave her a purpose and without it…" He poured another drink. "Well… that became an impossible dream."

He was reminded of an old Dwarf Phrase he had overheard once; No beer is as bitter as that of history… "I'm not sure how to help her… If that would actually make her happy… Yang and Ruby both will learn of Cathay on thier own time, but for now… Remnant is their home."

He didn't imagine his new family would have liked Cathay… It wasn't the Vale after all…

He wasn't even sure if he was the same dragon he was when he left… Taiyang wasn't the first child he ever had… And nothing he could do would change his mistakes. To put it on his grandchildren however would be even worse… No, Remnant would be protected by it's Huntsmen, dragon or not.

Perhaps Summer had a point with Ruby…
—-
"It's time for bed Yang."

"I'm not tired yet-!" Yang lied, yawning near the end before trying to look tougher. "I'm a dragon! I don't feel tired!"

Summer just smiled. "If Ruby is sleeping you should sleep too, you have to grow big and strong if you want to BE a dragon.~"

"But-"

"No buts, young dragon." Summer said, guiding Yang to her bed.

"Can I…" Yang yawned again. "Can I get a story?"

"Of course. How about… the Gift of the Moon?"

Yang paused as she was tucked in. "Is it about… about Great-Grandma? Aunt Miao told me she was from the moon…"

"It's about our moon…" Summer leaned in and whispered conspiratorially. "I don't think this one is a real story, like Miao's, but it's a nice one."

"H-how do you know it's a true story?"

Yang saw her other mother pauses for a moment. "Because your dad told me, and Miao wouldn't have him lie, would he?"

"I guess not…"

Summer grinned. "That's our sunny little dragon. Now, let's see…"

 

[Yin-Yin Fan]

Summer held Yang tightly in her arms, the younger girl's grip was stronger then it was then… almost comparable to her father really. "Stay safe."

Summer gave Yang a reassuring smile… this wasn't a typical Grimm hunt and… well, the young dragon-blooded had no idea how much those words meant. "I'll try," She assured her. "Just take good care of everyone while I'm gone."

She turned her Ruby, who's big eyes were more curious and nervous then with familial concern; after all, she was Mom.. "Be good for Tai and Yang for me, okay?"

"Okay mom…" Ruby smiled shyly, her small little hands grabbing her mother's. "I'll be good."

Summer stood up to face Tai. "Do your best, alright? I'll try to be back as soon as I can."

Taiyang, to her surprise, took her into an embrace, but she returned it. It was difficult to say goodbye, no matter how permanent or temporary… even Huntsmen weren't invincible. And she didn't tell them just what sort of grimm she was hunting, only that it was very dangerous.

Summer didn't like lying; however she learned very early in her life that the truth was quite flexible. Helpful for 'Ozpin's jobs;... though, if she was honest about it, Ozpin didn't matter at this point. It was her.

No words were exchanged between the two adults, Summer was about to take a step outside before she took a look back; the wood of the house's floors and walls, Yang and Ruby, Taiyang… Her silver eyes took in everything, and everyone she was hoping to protect. Raven's sword lying on a weapon rack, awaiting the return of it's owner, and a Picture of Qrow and Yang posing in front of a movie poster…

"I'll see you soon."

The twilight of the night sky greeted her as she stepped out, the broken moon hung above her as she began her journey… but she knew she was being followed.

"What are you doing, Summer?"

Summer hummed idly. "Nothing Miao. I just have a job to do-"

"... Do you think I can't recognize a martyr?"

Summer turned, the mask of her cheerful smile and silvery-eyes on. "C'mon not another one of these. I thought you were with Raven back in Mistral…"

"Summer, what are you trying to do?"

The Silver-Eyed Huntress sighed. "I want to make a world where Ruby and Yang can just grow up in peace. Even if I can't… I might find something to get closer to it."

Miao approached her, slowly, deliberately. "Do not make a mistake… if you do not return then…"

"... I've made up my mind. I have to try, Miao." Summer replied, walking away, and Miao followed.

—-

Zhao smiled mischievously as he showed Ruby a plain metal screw, then put it behind her head and then with a trick he had practiced since he discovered his Wind of choice, pulled from behind her the now golden screw. The young girl gasped and smiled widely as Zhao felt Chamon leave the screw as it returned to just plain metal.

Yang grinned. "See, Grandpa can be cool sometimes."

"'Sometimes' she says." Zhao shook his head. "I am quite cool all the time, thank you."

The family was in the living room, as most were, Zhao finding time to visit his grandaughters. Miao was away on business… conveniently at the same time Summer was on quite a grand hunt for the Grimm. Miao was many things but convenient was, in his experience at least, not one of them.

Taiyang was busy cooking lunch, leaving Zhao with the task of keeping them busy. Ruby at her age was more interested in his 'magic tricks' "How'd ya do it?"

"Well… Ah, back… back in Cathay I used to study Alchemy… or Chemistry. A much less elegant name I have to say."

Ruby giggled as Yang rolled her eyes. "Part of that was just a little bit of magic… clung to my Aura, it seems." he smiled faintly, putting the screw into one of his pockets. "Taught your father some of it, but it's rather tricky."

Yang eyes' widened. "So uh, when am I going to learn some?"

"Oh oh! I wanna do magic!"

Zhao paused for a moment. "Well, the Lore of Yang is a complicated thing… especially without the Winds…" And if he was honest… well, he was not his Parents. He knew his limits and… well, he was better with Chamon's aspects, some Aqshy as well (though Li would always be the more attuned to it)

"It will take a while, but We will try… Tai certainly got far enough." He smiled. "Ah, but it's dangerous Yang… can't have you burning down the house quite yet."

"It's not insured for arson."

Yang and Ruby perked up at the voice of Raven, their attention rapt as the woman braced herself for her daughter's embrace, which came only a few minutes after. She never was.

Ruby smiled sheepishly but hid behind the couch, by her grandpa… Raven looked tired, but smiled for Yang's sake. "How's my little dragon doin'? Still getting good grades?"

"Good! I got straight As again!" Yang grinned. "That should keep great Auntie off your back."

"If only…" Raven muttered. "Speaking of, she's not back yet?"

"She mentioned she had some business to see." Zhao replied. "I thought that was with your little… business venture?"

"She should have been back by now…" Raven said to herself, shaking her head a bit before looking at her daughter. "Food's ready by the way, better go eat before Dad gets tired of waiting and eats it all for himself."

Yang let out a comical gasp before looking at her sister. "C'mon Rubes."

Zhao and Raven watched the children move. Ruby moved quickly, though never quite meeting Raven's eyes… Raven didn't blame her; she couldn't quite hide a certain nervousness that began to creep up on her.

"And Summer is…"

"Away." Zhao frowned. "Ah… I see what you're getting at then…"

Raven didn't like this… right as she was away, Miao and Summer both conveniently having 'work'... Zhao was the only one of the two who had a 'job'... their jobs tended to be-

The temptation struck her then to just…. Check on her. Her Semblance could do it easily really, she didn't have any excuse to not try…

"I wouldn't worry too much." Zhao replied. "We both know that Miao… she is not going to be delinquent in her work, especially if that involves family."

Raven shook her head, but didn't reply, the idea making her stomach twist… something was very wrong about this…

—-

There was a loud, audible CRACK as Summer was launched into a wall. The Master of the Grimm approached her without fear, an expression of boredom on her face… not that Summer could see it anymore. It was a miracle that she was still alive, or perhaps a curse; all that was before her was darkness, but she was bleeding, her body wouldn't respond to her, she couldn't feel her legs…

"... Well, Miss Rose was it?" Salem's voice echoed in front of her, sounding as if she had just had a good sprint rather than a battle with a Silver-Eyed Warrior. "It's time to end this little game… it was a welcome distraction at the very least."

Summer tried to retort, but blood dribbled from her mouth, her head swimming as she heard an explosion from above, and felt her hair standing up.

"WHAT?!"

Miao Ying, The Storm Dragon, favored daughter of the Dragon Emperor of Grand Cathay faced Salem, and Summer could only imagine how they looked at one another… She felt claw, heavy and sharp and somehow comforting pick up her broken form, consciousness fading as she felt something warm and.. Green? Wrap around her.

Salem watched and felt her eye twitch. This THING was… powerful. Scales blacker than midnight, eyes a bright gray, like the moon… Salem stared it right in those eyes, a primal part of her brain paused at the sight of it… of another Dragon.

It tried to make its escape as a bolt of thunder struck Salem down before she could react, which of course meant little to Salem, the witch reforming to see the dragon not evening bothering to make sure she was dead.

Grimm responded to her anger, rising up prepared to slay the dragon, but it kept moving. Nevermores and Lancers were electrocuted and dissolved as they came near it.

Salem steadied herself, watching it grow smaller and smaller out in the distance. Dragons… something out of mythology, the form they took to face her. Their real bodies… and suddenly, one was back, and looked at her. Mocking, Insulting, like she was a mere gnat AGAIN…

She doubted her grimm could slay it, but…

With her heart hardened, temper quickly came under the control of a millennia of patience… she set out to work; she was not some damsel who hid from dragons.

—-

There was a Shrine in her house; it was a small thing with small offerings… really it was more of a shelf with a family picture of team STQR, Yang and Ruby, in front of two figures; one made out of black and smooth in the shape that Miao and Grandpa always said they looked like. The other was the same, but pristine white.

Miao told Yang that the white dragon was her great-grandfather, the Dragon Emperor. She made her memorize so much about a place she would never see; as a way to remember him and for her to know him… It was hard to believe he was a real person sometimes, but she just… knew it was true. She couldn't explain it; it was as if she knew it was the truth, even beyond Grandpa and his magic tricks, or Great Aunt Miao's words.

That held equally true for the Moon Empress… Zhao told her stories, but not history. She was a hero; the type who went around healing the sick, helping her family… Ruby liked hearing about her the most.

The two sisters looked at the shrine when they were sure their father and Raven were asleep. Yang awoke to have Ruby by her bedside after a nightmare… and didn't want to wake Raven up. Yang didn't blame her; mom liked sleeping.

"Why here?" Ruby asked quietly.

"Because Great-Grandma and Great-Grandpa will help you." Yang said simply. "So long as they're here, they can watch over us and keep us safe."

"B-But… Aren't they gone?"

Yang paused. "They're not… really gone-gone just… somewhere else." Yang decided. "Miao says it's an old tradition, and does Miao lie?"

"I dunno…" Ruby sniffed, though she seemed to be feeling better about her nightmares at that. "Does Miao… miss them?'

"Everyday…"

Both sisters let out an undignified yelp as they turned to face their grandfather, looking more wistful but amused by it. "You're both up rather early. Is everything alright?"

"Everything's fine grandpa, Ruby just had a bit of a nightmare." Yang replied, her heart calming down. "I thought it would help."

Zhao nodded, kneeling down. "And did it help?"

Ruby paused. "I… think so…?"

Zhao looked at the figure of the Moon Empress and the father he… would never see again. "They're watching over you, I can assure you of that," he replied. "Even if you can't see them… you can feel them, in your heart. That's what matters."

He stood up. "Well, you both need to be put to bed, at least for the next few hours."

Ruby allowed herself to be picked up and Yang followed, watching the older dragon take Ruby up, sleep already reclaiming her as he walked up the stairs and placed her in her room, tucking her in gently. Yang smiled seeing her sister sleeping quietly…

Zhao put a hand on Yang's shoulder. He didn't say why, but Yang felt a sense of pride out of him for a moment. "It's time you went to bed too."

"Nah i'm fine grandpa." Yang lied, trying to ignore a yawn building in her. "It's only uh… 3 o clock?"

He tutted disapprovingly. "Save that for your teen years."

He led her, Yang half-heartedly resisting to go to her room; stacks of books, both for school and gifted to Yang by Miao littered her desk, and a massive map of Remnant stood next to it. It's contiently lovingly detailed. Yang laid down on her bed, giving a glance back at her grandfather as he repeated how he tucked in Ruby.

"Grandpa… Is Ruby going to be okay?"

"She'll be fine, nightmares happen from time to time." he smiled. "Besides, with a dragon like you… she should have nothing to worry about."

—-

As Always, this was her burden to bear; to offer guidance and, if necessary, demand sacrifice. She had seen worse injuries, been in worse circumstances… but something about it being Summer…

The Water of Cathay, once called Ghyran by the Empire (as Yin-Yin had told her repeatedly due to her interaction with the Elves of Ulthuan) was not here; all she had was the barest essences of it. Summer was only alive through her will… Summer was eerily calm about her state; her aura was weak, but keeping her alive now through Miao's support.

The worst of the Grimm had long been left back in that place, but they left their mark on her as well; retaking her true form was taxing in this world… She needed to rest, to sleep…but not here, not now, not while she still needed to get Summer to safety.

"It's… alright…" Summer assured her. "I thought this would happen… I-"

Miao didn't respond, using what little of her power remained to soothe the burns… For as much as she was associated with the power of the storm, the peaceful waters of the wind of Life was simply too useful to not learn; an injured warrior was not an efficient warrior….

Summer would never fight again; the prosthetics of this world were beyond Grand Cathay or indeed most of her old world, aside from perhaps the Old Ones her father had mentioned to her, but in spite of it Miao knew it

"... Ozpin needs to know." Summer said simply.

"You're lucky to be alive, Summer." Miao said, taking a moment to look around in the area, still int he wilds, but safe for the moment. The trees, the air… there was life here, where the Wind would have dwelt. "You decided to face that monster and for what?"

Summer, despite her condition, laughed slightly. "For Ruby and Yang."

Miao looked at her as if she lost her head, though she knew Summer couldn't see it. "You told me that you would have sacrificed everything for Cathay, and you did… If you thought you could-"

"I knew I couldn't."

"... Miao I have… a favor to ask you." Summer said suddenly.

"What more could you-"

"Salem knows my name… she might come after me if she can but… could you keep Ruby safe?"

Miao looked at her crossly before she spoke. "I have always done so, despite your secrets."

"If I didn't keep my secrets, would you care about her?"

"... I-"

"... Please, for me… I need you to take care of her for me… I always thought I would die like that… against the Grimm…" She frowned. "And I… I don't want Ruby to be like that."

Miao took a breath, considering the options as her ally continued. "Yang will grow up, and she wants to be a dragon… But they need to be kids first, the both of them… Please Miao…"

Miao struggled to think of a reason to tell Summer it was a mistake but as Summer drifted back into unconsciousness she was left alone… She thought back to the Dragon blooded under her command… She didn't understand why her siblings wanted to… express affection to that level to humans. Humans like Summer were exceptional… Humans like Taiyang's mother were not and yet…

Ruby had the Silver Eyes of her mother; a mark of distinction and power, and to some degree… character.

Silence overcame the forest as Miao tried to find rest.

Interlude: Hospital

An: a bonus

Raven could already see Ozpin's blood, he wouldn't have been able to react in time, and it would have been over in a moment. Better then the bastard deserved… which is why Miao was faster, she just grabbed the blade before Raven could get close.

"You-"

"ENOUGH!" Miao said. "There's been enough violence done over this."

"It's his fault!" Raven growled, but the blade faltered. "He's the one who got Summer-"

"Summer chose that… she didn't know-"

Raven growled, the white halls they were in were as private as they could make it, and Ozpin had a lot of pull… Ozpin didn't look too frightened of the blade; his face was sympathetic and guilty… which Raven knew was a lot of nerve…

She could have done something sooner, she thought to herself. She could have gone anytime, and she always knew Summer would end up like this… Someday, she was going to meet a Grimm she just couldn't beat, Silvereyes or not…

And she went after HER.

Qrow and Miao watched her, waiting for her to slip, but she held her tongue… there was nothing any of them could do now.

"... I'm sorry." Ozpin said after a moment. "But… I didn't tell her to do this."

"Ozpin, I swear to the Brothers-"

"Summer came to that decision herself." Miao interrupted her niece-in-law. "... She told me herself."

Raven, I knew what I was getting into when I enrolled at Beacon…

Dammit Summer…
"Hate to be the harbinger of bad news but… what are we going to tell Taiyang and the others?"

Raven grit her teeth. "The truth? Summer got herself… got herself…"

Ozpin shook his head. "Unfortunately, Salem knows her name… and I doubt that she would take such an insult lightly, especially considering Miao's appearance. And… I couldn't ask the both of you" he looked at Raven and Qrow. "to force your family to sacrifice more… it might be best to tell them enough to infer… but no more."

—-

Yang and Ruby were alone that day. Sure, technically the whole family was here… but they were up in their room while they argued.

"... I miss mom." Ruby said quietly. She was only a few years younger than Yang herself, but… Yang felt bigger then. She didn't know why, it was just… she knew she had to be, for her.

Yang embraced her sister… Miao didn't think they were sisters, sometimes, but Summer told her… told her that family was more than just who your parents are. Ruby was her sister in every way that counted. Miao and Zhao both told her what dragons were supposed to do too; make sure normal people didn't get hurt, and to help them be better.

And Yang was going to be a dragon.

For Summer and Ruby.

 

[Yin-Yin Fan]

Miao eyed the creature in her Nephew's arms; a furry thing that stared back at her with an eternal expression of contentedness and joy in it's black eyes.

"Puppy!"

Ruby ran down the stairs and the dog yapped at her excitedly, attention taken from the Storm Dragon to her charge. She held it gently and the dog licked her face… it was a bit unsightly, probably not clean, but Ruby laughed and giggled.

"So… This is new." Miao said slowly, looking up at her nephew. "Taiyang… what matter of creature did you bring to your house?"

"It's a puppy." Ruby said, laughing and watching the dog run around.

Taiyang smiled sheepishly. "He's a Corgi. His name is Zwei."

"He was inspired by that little dog in that kids movie we took Yang and Ruby to." Zhao chimed in, the smile on his face letting Miao know who, exactly, gave him the idea. "Reminded me of Riekspiel; apparently some old Atlesian, now-"

"As fascinating as its etymology is brother, Taiyang is already busy enough. He needs rest and dogs are hard work."

"I can take care of him, Aunt Miao." Taiyang assured. "And the kids and…."

Miao sighed. "... you didn't think this through-"

"But the important part is that Zwei is a part of the family now."

"It's a dog."

"So?"

Miao sighed. "Ruby, this is a conversation between adults."

"Please?" Ruby said, holding up Zwei to Miao's face, the small creature back to staring at her…
She could almost hear Shen Zoo's voice in her head… almost… "Fine." She sighed.

"Yes! C'mon boy! Yang is going to love you!"

—-

Raven was glad she stayed for days like this. She… wondered if she could have had this back in the old days. She… she didn't remember this with her own parents… actually come to think about it she didn't remember her parents at all…

Still, they were missing out. Yang was smiling, Ember Celica already in her arms. Her first weapon… Just like her father, she liked her martial arts.

"You're getting good." Raven commented as they began to walk home from a training exercise… which is what Raven preferred to call "throw your dragon-child at small-fry", and to be fair Yang caught on pretty quickly. Fighting was in her blood on both sides of the family, and Raven was going to try to make sure that Yang knew it from both ends of it.

"I know, but I have to be better. He almost got my hair that time!" Yang huffed.

"Focus less on the hair… We're still banned from the barber because you just had to get fighty-"

"Mom, I spent a lot of time trying to get my hair just right! Besides, it looked better after I was done with it!" Yang huffed. "... besides mom, you got in trouble a lot too."

"Yeah, but for…" Raven paused. "Well, for more than just hair. Don't complain when someone is complimenting' ya."

Yang looked forwards. "... I have to be better, mom… It's my responsibility to be the best I can be."

Raven sighed… that was the Dragon Talk. Miao was always on about it when she could, like her professors were. Honestly Raven wondered how she could stand Vale, given Miao seemed to belong somewhere in Atlas, giving orders to people who expected to be bossed around by an angry woman with control issues. Not a kid, dragon or not.

"C'mon don't be like that, you did good!"

"It was just one beowulf! Not even a big one…"

"Well, we all gotta start somewhere." Raven said. "Beowulf's are good practice anyways."

"Summer didn't lose to a Beowulf." Yang said quietly. "I can handle them… but so can most people mom… I can't be most people…"

Raven twitched slightly. "Yang…"

"Sorry but… You know, it's like that movie; i have all this power so… i have to use it protect people, like Ruby."

Raven shook her head. "Yang, dragon-blood or not, it's your power to with what you want."

Yang looked at her confused, so she continued, their house coming into view. "You want to be a huntress? Knock yourself out, but you don't have the responsibility… Just be the best Yang you want to be." She smiled at her daughter. "'Sides, you know i can fight with the best of them. I don't need to be a Dragon to be a Huntress"

Yang nodded, but… Raven wasn't sure she got the point…

She was tired of this. Miao was the worst, but he could… feel it off of all of them. ALien dragon-nonsense, but they were as messed up as anyone else…

Maybe she needed to talk to Tai about this…

"Mom, look, Ruby and… huh what's that?
Raven looked forwards as a small dog ran into her midsection, knocking the huntress to the ground. "Arf!"

"Zwei, you can't just attack Aunt Raven!"

Yang laughed as she helped her mom up as the dog yapped excitedly…

Hey wait a minute they didn't have a dog! "TAI!"

—

Miao liked Ruby's artwork. She was quite good, nothing quite compared to Cathayian art that her mother and Zhao loved, but she admired her artwork on the technical aspects; she had a way with details in machinery. Remnant's technology was… advanced, but Ruby grasped it naturally.

Miao watched her and Qrow working on the design of her weapon: she wasn't going to start until… at least a year? But she wanted a head start… children in this world always seemed to want to get results faster. Mortals rarely had an appreciation of time. Urgency was needed in certain circumstances, but to know the limit and when to be urgent was a skill all it's own…

"Miao! What do you think?"

Both moved aside as the Storm Dragon's critical eyes swept over the schematics. Zhao had a particular fascination with the technology,and Miao was forced to admit it was formidable. Weapons capable of switching forms, offering tactical flexibility, and Ruby's was no exception. She played to her strengths; while taking obvious inspiration from Qrow's weapon; being a scythe, but with, if she was reading it correctly it had ranged capabilities… which Ruby had been excitedly explaining.

"'Crescent Rose?'" Miao repeated. "It's.. impressive."

Qrow smiled, ruffling Ruby's hair. "Kid did most of the work, i was just supervisin' is all."

"It still need some refining." Ruby began, looking at her blueprints with a smile. "But she's going to be amazing…"

"Perhaps you'd be better suited to designing weaponry?" Miao said absentmindedly. She was brilliant from what she could tell, probably the equal to the Blind Master that was once one of Nan-Guan's brightest minds…

"Aunty," Ruby said with a tired sort of tone. "I'm going to be a huntress… this is a hobby after my baby is finished. Which… uh, you think Grandpa will help out with it?"

Qrow sighed. "He's throwing away money on anything honestly."

"Indeed…" Miao replied. "How much is this going to cost?"

"..."

Miao stared at her… niece. She could, she supposed, see a similarity between her and Qrow but the silver eyes, her hair… down to her face. She was Summer, just smaller. "... I'll see what i can do for it… and you, Qrow?"

"... early birthday gift I guess." He patted Ruby's back. "Which, I'm starting to notice, I give a lot of those."

Ruby blinked innocently. "Whaaaat? No, don't be silly Uncle Qrow, this is the last time, promise!"

"I'll keep you to your word," Miao warned. She really was like Shen Zoo… she knew how to get the favor of everyone, didn't she?

Speaking of which. "Now, I think it's about time for your practice session." Miao began.

"Okay…" Ruby said with a bit of a sigh as she left the workshop… Qrow stood next to the storm dragon as Ruby left.

"... You can't stop her from being a huntress… it's in her blood, one way or the other." He wasn't unsympathetic to Miao, but he was resigned to it. "She… thinks she can handle it."

"Most children do." Miao agreed. "... I cannot fault her for wanting to be active but… It seems almost negligent to encourage her."

—-

Taiyang brought his wife some coffee as she looked at Zwei, who yapped happily at her as he sat in her chair… to be fair it wasn't her chair, just the one she liked sitting in but the dog didn't care about that. "I hate him."

"He'll grow on you."

Raven smirked to herself, it wouldn't be the only thing Tai brought into her life that she learned to like… "... Yang's out learning magic isn't she?"

"It's not… that kind of magic." Tai insisted. "It's aura stuff really, Mistral's full of it."

Ravne nodded, taking a sip of her bitter drink. "... Do you think that… They like us?"

Taiyang cleared his throat. "What?"

"... Yang's been… worried about us. About… Summer…" She took a breath. "And You know, she's got it in her head about her 'responsibility' because she's a dragon… and…" Raven was just trying to find the right words. "... Do you look down on me because i'm just… a normal person?"

Taiyang frowned. "... I used to be the same way… then I met you, and Summer…" he smiled. "Qrow not so much." Raven cracked a smile at it but he continued. "But… they like people, but they want to protect people… they feel they have to, like Summer did…" He sighed. "Miao gave everything to protect people, she knows you're capable but… apparently this world is pretty safe in comparison."

"Which says a lot about that place." Raven added with a sigh. "I don't need to be held… and Yang shouldn't be worried about making sure that nothing bad happens to us or someone in Mantle or anything… She should just be worried about kids stuff…"

Tai smiled. "It's just… She wants to be a Huntress and isn't sure about why she wants it. She's got a good heart… which is all I really wanted, dragon or not. Besides, she's mostly human…"

Raven sighed, picking up Zwei and putting him on her lap. If Zwei had a protest he didn't open his mouth as he sat down. "... Still, I have been going a bit soft… Have to show Yang how mom used to be back in the day…"

"I'm sure once she gets her Team it will help clear her head." Tai said. "And she does love you… She's just worried about you too."

"She shouldn't be." Raven grumbled. "That's not how it should be Tai… I'm her mother. I should worry about her…"

Tai sat down in his chair, and took her free hand, annoying Zwei as he wasn't getting pets anymore. "That's just what family does."

Raven didn't know what to reply… She just looked at her husband… the house just felt… empty since Summer went…

But despite everything… she had Taiyang, Yang, Ruby… Maybe he was right.

—-
*Years later*

"Ruby, if you're going to Dust til Dawn, would you mind picking up something for me?"

"Sure Grandpa… wait you didn't get banned from there did you?" The uncomfortable look Granpa Zhao had told her all she needed to know. "... Fine, what did you need?"

"Just some Red and Blue Dust" He replied from the couch. "Oh! And be careful! Apparently there's been some robberies in the Vale lately."

"I'll be fine, I got Crescent Rose with me!" she patted the weapon on her hip. She was about to head out when Yang met her by the door.

"If anyone messes with you, just give me a call, 'kay?"

"Yang, it's just shopping… probably just gonna get a magazine." Ruby smiled. "You want anything?"

"Nah i'm good… Just make sure you get back here quick; Miao's gonna quiz you about Yin tonight… you have been practicing, right?"

Ruby's smile turned nervous. 'Of course! I totally have not been watching cartoons instead okaygottagobye!"

In a flash of rose petals she was out the door. Yang smiled with a sigh, looking back at her grandpa. "... Miao's not going to be happy."

"To be honest i'm not sure she can be happy sometimes." Zhao replied. "In fact it hink she's only happy when she's unhappy… my sister can be a strange one."

Yang sat next to him on the couch. "Mind if i put something on?"

"No no, feel free!" Zhao replied. Yang looked at the newspaper he was reading… "Anything interesting? Aside from Dust thieves?"

"Nothing much… I used to check it religiously to see if there were… other survivors." he smiled sadly. "Your Great Aunt Yin-Yin would already be infamous if she was here… you'd like her I think… it's just…"

Yang put a hand on his shoulder. "I know… But don't worry. I'm sure there are some people who made it… they had to…"

She smiled. "And after Beacon… I'll make sure to protect them too."

 

[Yin-Yin Fan]

"Wonder what's got those two so worked up?" Ruby asked, watching a skipping girl following a boy.

"Who knows?" Yang said with a shrug. "You're awfully chipper today."

"Yep! No more awkward small talk, or "getting-to-know-you' stuff. Today I get to let my sweetheart do the talking!" Ruby petted the weapon like it was Zwei… Yang just smiled at her little sister, though something of worry crept into her response.

"Well, we're not the only ones going to the initiation." Yang reminded her. "If you want to grow up, you have to meet new people and work together, in Harmony with the team."

Ruby rolled her eyes. "You're talking like dad and grandpa! Firstly, what does meeting new people have to do with Harmony? And secondly, I don't need people to help me grow up! I. Drink. MILK!"

Yang shook her head. "Ruby, what if we're on separate teams?"

Ruby laughed it off a bit nervously. "Whaa? No! We'll probably be like our moms… right?"

I really hope not, the thought entered her head. Yang adjusted her hair. "Ruby, I'll always be there for you, but it would help you get out of your shell."

"You don't… you don't want to be on my team?"

Yang shook her head. "Of course, I do! But it would be good for you." Yang struggled for the moment. It had been a really weird change of fate for Ruby to be here; stopping a Dust Store Robbery and getting Ozpin's attention was out of the blue. If it had to be anyone though, it would be Ruby. She left her alone for five minutes and she apparently caused an explosion. "... Look, let's let the chips fall wherever they have to."

Ruby grimaced but nodded her head. "I guess…"

Yang smiled despite herself. Ruby had gotten bigger in a lot of ways, and team or not they were sisters. It was hard to let her go but it needed to happen. A small part of her prayed that she could be on Ruby's team, but she knew the odds were slim at best, but… it never hurt to ask Great Grandpa to help out.

—-

Initiation looked fun so far; being launched into the middle of a Grimm-infested forest? That was practically training with Mom! She looked to Ruby, who seemed to be ready with Crescent Rose, that… Vomit Boy? Who seemed to be questioning the Headmaster with all sorts of annoying questions…

Then the Launching started. It was liberating for those brief moments in the air; Zhao and Miao had told her that they could fly, they could even float in their human forms, but they had to come down. As Dragons? They could stay up as long as they wanted, and just for those brief moments like this, Yang understood. Something about it just made her feel alive before gravity began to push her back down to the ground, which, naturally, her Dragon-Blood challenged her to keep going and going, trying to keep it up for as long as she could. But alas, she couldn't win against the forces of Remnant, so she plummeted down, through the trees, to a perfect landing.

"Nailed it!" She huffed. That was fun, but never quite like she wanted it to be. She dusted herself off and looked about herself; the trees were a sea of green, with a comforting familiar breeze about the place.

Still, she had no time to waste admiring the scenery, she had a job to do, and her family expected success. With no one in sight to form a partnership, she just followed Ozpin's directions. Ruby would be fine, she hoped. Hopefully she already had a partner, and they were getting along just fine.

—-

Weiss remembered what her grandmother told her; that in life, what really mattered in the end was the discipline to endure what the world threw at her.

And this Ruby Rose was clearly a test, one that she would have to endure for her entire time at Beacon Academy. (Well, unless she somehow convinced the headmaster about a rule change. Surely, she couldn't be the only one with a bad partner?) Her blood had endured worse. She was just a child, annoying, petulant, hyperactive, but Weiss could endure at least until they got to the temple, which would be soon.

"We're lost." Ruby said for the third time, bringing Weiss out of her head.

"No we aren't!" Weiss replied.

"Yes! We are!" Ruby gestured to the only location that looked different; the minor forest fire they both inadvertently caused. "That's the only landmark we have!"

Weiss scoffed. "Well, that wouldn't have happened if you just let me take care of the Beowulfs!"

"But you said you would take charge and now we're more lost than ever!" Ruby sighed. "... I'm pretty sure it's that way."

Weiss pouted. "Well fine, let's try it your way then."

Weiss would immediately regret it.

—-

Blake just watched as Yang launched an Ursa over a few standards of hair. She had hoped to be paired with someone… quieter but she supposed beggars couldn't be choosers… on the plus side however, she could wrestle Ursas and win.

She introduced herself by assisting with the other one, it was quicker, a lot less flashy, but it caught her attention. Iliac eyes met the Faunus and for a brief moment Blake forgot she was disguised and panicked, but just for a moment.

"... I could have handled it." The girl said after a moment, though she was smiling.

—-

They were just… chess pieces.

Blake had thought they would be something more, but Yang studied it for just a moment before deciding on the Knight. If there was any significance to the choice of the pieces, Yang didn't seem to care.

And just then, moments after, Blake's ears twitched as they both heard a scream, Yang paused for a moment, it wasn't Ruby's but that still meant-

However, that wasn't exactly what got Blake's attention, and Yang very quickly saw what she was seeing as Ruby was crashing from the sky. Yang's eyes widened and continued to widen as something crashed into her and made her land in a tree. Before she fell down and was dazed.

"RUBY!"

"Ughhh no grandma I didn't bring anything…" Her little sister said as Yang sighed, taking her by the hand to help her up as Ruby blinked.

"Uh, help?"

"Oh, hi Jaune…" Ruby said, shaking her head

"Did they just fall from the sky?"

Yang didn't reply to her new partner just making sure Ruby was stable, and she was, thankfully. Yang could already see Miao scolding her, but since she wasn't here she supposed it would be her job to keep-

A rumbling noise made them all turn to see an Ursa… and someone riding it? She killed it after "Aw, I broke it…"

"Maybe I hit my head harder than I thought…" Ruby mumbled.

Lie Ren came after Nora, who grabbed the Gold Rook and proceeded to dance with it on her head, as he introduced herself.

"Well this is-" before Blake could finish this thought Pyrrha Nikos arrived, and Yang's eyes was twitching; not so much because of her but because now there was a giant DEATHSTALKER coming after her.

Yang tried to take a breath; In and out, there was an order to this and she needed to find it, to turn this discord into something more-

Jaune fell out of the tree, but recovered well, Dusting himself off and immediately getting ready, however gingerly to defend them all until Weiss jumped down from-

Yang felt like her semblance wanted to activate just as the sight of it; most people didn't like Grimm, but she really, really didn't like the look of Nevermores; it was like a part of her saw it as some sort of more; it was a thing pretending to be a bird, with cruel eyes of malicious intelligence. It was just something more than hating a grimm; it was like its existence was a insulting her

Weiss, lept down and Ruby tried to catch her… only to bump into Jaune who was doing the same thing. Luckily, Both of them proved to be sufficient cushioning for Weiss.

Okay this was bad, but not impossible. If she thought it was impossible then they were all going to die together, but they had a chance. All they needed to do was to not be stupid.

Ruby decided to do something stupid. In a blur of red petals, she charged at the Deathstalker, and while Crescent Rose couldn't pierce the Chitin-bone armor of the monster. The monster seemed to toy with it for a bit, studying the young huntress-to-be as she shot at it, bullets bouncing off of it before it pushed hard. "Ruby!"

"I'm fine, I'm fine, I'm fine!" Ruby called back as she stood, before trying to do it again, but unfortunately the Nevermore made a second pass, launching feathers in the attempt to finish the Silver-eyed girl, and it made good on it; Ruby dodged it but her beloved cape. Ruby tried to do… something, Weiss noticed but it didn't seem to work, unfocused as Ruby was

No no no no no! Time slowed to that creeping inching of inevitability before Yang's eyes. She cursed herself for being too slow, for not being with Ruby beforehand, it was all her fault. She tried to rush in, but a white blur went past her, and she could see glyphs of snowflakes beneath slowly fade.

The stinger tail was incased in frost; cold and icy blue, the beast struggled to escape the cold grasp as the girl yelled at Ruby. Yang didn't hear much of it, her heartbeat calming down. She was fine and her partner would keep her on the straight and narrow.

"I just wanted to prove myself." Ruby responded to Weiss, standing up only to be met with Yang's embrace.

It was quick, as the Deathstalker was beginning to let its protests be known loudly as the sisters stepped back. Jaune then pointed to the sky. "That thing's circling back! What are we gonna do?"

Weiss just moved over to the chess pieces. "Well, the relics are here."

Ruby caught onto her meaning. "She's right; the mission is getting the relics back to the cliff. We don't have to fight them."

Jaune nodded. "Right okay I can get behind that." Ruby grabbed the a knight, and Jaune absentmindedly took the other rook. Both teams then booked it, but Yang could feel the predator gaze of avian-eyes following her. Qrow always mentioned that with the Grimm; the big ones were the smart ones, the ones that lived long enough, and if they wanted you dead, they'd find a way.

Ruby leaped to a bolder and gestured to them to follow, and Yang smiled, hanging back for a bit. "You okay?" Blake asked her. Yang just smiled.

—-

Uncle Qrow was right. Completely and utterly right; they weren't giving up once they decided to make them targets. The Deathstalker was being dealt with by Jaune, Nora, Pyrrha and Nora, and the others tried to deal with the Nevermore. They were by cliffside ruins, a misty gorge being a possible grave for them if they messed this up.

The avian monster was tougher than it looked; while Yang would always before to be eager for volume of fire, but the Nevermore didn't live this long by letting huntsmen shoot at it. As it came in, little caring for the few parts of the barrage that hit it, they were suddenly falling. Yang, adrenaline pumping realized it was time for a different kind of flying, and the other three joined her in jumping from fallen ruins.

"I have a plan!" Ruby called out. "Cover me!"

Yang decided to do a quick 'trick'; she wasn't going to do anything fancy, aside from helping Ruby accomplish what she needed to do, just bolster herself up a bit with what Grandfather had taught her. Her Aura seemed to lighten, similar to her own semblance, though it seemed to eat at her Aura. Still, if Ruby's plan didn't work, Yang needed to be ready for her. The 'magic', such as it was flowed into Ember Celcia, and if it was working in top performance before, it was beyond that now. Weiss, rushing in seemed to pause when Yang did so, but her attention was swiftly occupied by the more important target.

And good as well, as it came for Yang next. The overgrown chicken opened its mouth wide after an empowered blow struck at its face and opened its maw. Yang couldn't help but obliged its apparent desire for another blow. It went down it's hatch and seemed to cause it pain... But not enough to make it dead. Its head looked like a smoldering ruin at this point, but the malice in its eyes…

Yang passed it but saw her partner and Ruby on the collapsing columns, Wiess saying something to her as they passed before she froze the tip of its tail to the canyon all, the beast struggling in a way that almost made Yang take pity on it. Almost.

The final steps to beat the monster were already set in stone then. Yang helped with Gambol Shroud as Ruby's plan came together. The Nevermore screeched it's last, its head jumping in the air of Ruby's final strike as they made it to the overside of the bridge. The four girls landed just a bit before the Nevermore's head faded.

Yang watched it twitch, her body jumping on adrenaline as she felt a sense of victory. It faded soon after, becoming nothing.

The other four people seemed to be just as elated after their fight with the Deathstalker… I have a lot of improving to do. Yang thought to herself, taking a moment to look down into the misty gorge. Ruby could have…

She never finished the thought.

—-

Yang was anxious; Being a part of a team would mean something. Whoever she was with would be with her for a long time and if Team STRQ was a good example, a part of the family. She might not even be a leader. It wasn't until Miao MET Summer she let her dad live it down…

She could hear out through the crowd that she wasn't the only one in the auditorium with worry. Some might be more focused on the short-term (relatively) of their team. She just hoped that they could get past that, and maybe… She let out a breath, just seeing Ozpin take the stage.

"You alright Yang?"

She smiled a bit and patted her sister on the back. "Of course… You uh… nervous about this?"

"Kinda… even if I'm on a different team I'm still with Weiss."

"Relax, I'm sure she'll have to melt over you eventually."

Ruby fell back into silence as Opzin spoke.

The names of the teams appeared soon after he called them out. CRDL, JNPR, and-

"Team RWBY"

Yang froze, her brain trying to comprehend the image there, a sinking sensation along with one of pride… it didn't sit right with her. Looking over to Ruby however, she was just as surprised, and a bit elated.

Weiss just looked at the two sisters with an odd expression… wondering just what she had gotten into.

—-

Miao gave a curt nod to the Huntsmen who left the building. It was tacky, but what she could expect from Zhao? A small recreation of his House of Secrets back in the old world. He made his trade from selling Dust munitions… and Miao could not blame him. At the very least it allowed the both of them to have enough Lien to support themselves, though she knew that the Lien meant little to him. After all, creatures as long lived as them were creatures of habit.

The building was closer to the Vale's wall, a move Zhao thought would increase customers for his wares. As she centered the bright lights and clean floors greeted her as she passed rows upon rows of ammunition behind plexiglass stalls, with the distinctive casing that Zhao had found to be ideal for his brand…

It also had his 'mascot' which was just his true form done in the style of Ruby's cartoons giving a 'thumbs up' a gesture he had picked up a while ago. She wasn't sure if he was making a fool of himself on purpose, or if his insanity had gotten to the point of mocking his true form.

She went behind the counter and opened the door to her brother's office, where he sat at his desk with photos of their family on his desk. Behind him was a bookshelf with books on his arts, Dust, and assorted things that caught his interest

"Welcome… oh, it's just you, sister." Zhao smiled. "Right on time, the shop is about to be closed as well."

Miao just looked at her brother; he made a good show of blending into Vale's human population, even his crown simply laid behind him on a plinth while he dressed in a suit and shades… which, she supposed, was a better way to hide their distinctive eyes… if it wasn't already the evening. "You're going to remain here?"

"Well, with all those Dust robberies, I figured there was only one person I could trust to guard my little hoard." he smiled. "It's nice of you to check on me at least, but I promise I can take care of the store myself."

"Brother, with all due respect, something bigger is at play here." She gestured to the door to the storefront. "Dust robbery is common, but not to this degree. Not this amount… someone is planning something."

It reminded her of when supplies would be missing in the Bastion, it was a sign of treason or the wiles of the Great Enemy. In Nan-Guan, the schemes of the mortal 'Lords of Nan-Gau' kept her busy and often diverted her resources to petty power plays. She had already met the Witch, and with a being such as her behind the Grimm… Even if it was just the White Fang, what would they need so much for? Nothing good.

"I can handle it, and of course, you will be the first person I will let know… well, after the authorities of course." he smiled. "Given how… sensitive my work is, I think it's for the best that I defend it."

There was a pause. "Alone."

"At least have some guards."

"Do we need guards?" Zhao replied casually. "I'm not going to put people in danger for a matter that is easily solved by my own hands. That includes Taiyang and Raven before you begin. Let them enjoy the empty nest for a bit."

Miao took a breath; Patience was needed when dealing with family. "This is serious. The train Hijacking, Ruby getting involved… You cannot afford to distract yourself with petty human… distractions!"

Zhao Ming looked at the photos on his desk. "Sister… I'll be fine. I appreciate the concern but I'm not going to risk my employees over this." He looked at her seriously. "We agreed to stop making these sorts of sacrifices."

Miao frowned. "If you're sure about this then I suppose I will have to trust you. Keep me informed."

"Before you go," Zhao began, making Miao stop with her hand over the doorknob. "Have you been seeing anyone?"

By their Father and Mother not this again… "Brother that is not your concern-"

Zhao Ming smiled slightly. "Simply asking! You've been awfully lonely since we came to Remnant."

Miao turned the doorknob. "It's none of your business if I am or not. I thought we discussed this."

Zhao frowned but shook his head. "Not even a friend?"

Miao Ying paused again. "Not yet. Perhaps after this case-"

"Something else will pop up, get you to worry over that, and then when that's over yet another issue will arise."

"That is life."

"That," Zhao replied gently. "Is an excuse. I admire your dedication but… You need to be able to relax, especially since Yang and Ruby have grown up."

Miao turned the doorknob. "Good night, Brother."

Zhao Ming sighed. "Good night."

Miao left the building after a careful walk through the grounds, just to be absolutely safe.

 

[Yin-Yin Fan]

The first weekend at Beacon Academy was a slow one; everyone had an eventful week and so everyone had plans. Yang was already in the city of Vale. Ruby wanted to try finding stuff for all of them to do, but Yang was there to meet with her Great Aunt and so she needed to leave earlier than them if she wanted to meet her standards of punctuality. Apparently it was 'something to not burden Ruby with' which meant Yang could guess what the subject of this talk was.

The sisters had only been in Miao's apartment a few times; going to the City was always fun but living in Patch made it a trip they could do only rarely. Grandpa and Miao found the time to visit whenever they could, and when they were visited in the city it was usually because dad had work or Zhao was giving her lessons in the 'family business'. Which is why she felt odd that the Apartment building was mostly the same, but opening the door showed her just how little had changed from her visits as a child.

The room was pristine to a point that would make Glynda approve; a couch facing a holographic tv uptop of a dresser, a coffee table in the middle with books that weren't opened often. Miao let her past a fridge that held pictures of Ruby and her drawings. Yang just took a moment to look at the one of the whole family together. Ruby wasn't that good with drawing people outside of cartoons, but she captured everyone well, even Summer…

"If you're hungry, it can wait a moment." Her great Aunt called from the living room as she took a seat on the couch.

"Sorry just… reminiscing I guess." Yang sat down next to her… Miao never looked older to her, neither of the Dragons did. Raven told her they always looked like that, and Taiyang said the same. She seemed to be doing well, but Yang had no idea what she did for a living or if she had a life outside of the family.

"This wasn't easy to tell your father." Miao Ying began, which caught Yang off guard for a moment. "It isn't something I like to dwell on either, but as you have become a woman grown then…" She sighed. "You deserve to know the truth of why we're here."

Yang took a breath, the temperature of the room wasn't exactly high, but it felt chilling in that moment. "I thought… Grand Cathay was gone or something so-"

"Well, that was… a version of the truth told to a child." Miao replied gently, her tone gentle but hardened. "Cathay had its enemies, and they struck at us all at once…"

Yang just listened, not sure what to say as Miao described it; siblings and family, as well as a population bigger than any two of the kingdoms together wiped out by the roars of green-skinned monsters, mad rat-men with machines that spat lighting, and rose up from under the earth to strike before slipping away into the shadows. Snake-men invading, her Great Uncle forced to just barely work with the Mad Monkey King to slow the tide… but Miao looked most shaken against something else.

"I guarded the Bastion against foes beyond number. Twisted things that were once mortal men and women, crying out for profane gods. Never in such numbers. Servants of the Great Enemy, the only enemy to make my father feel fear." Miao wasn't looking at Yang anymore, not really. Her face was pale, her eyes almost dull as she relieved those events. "It was the most important thing I've ever done. The Bastion was as much The Emperor's Life as it was a Defense against the Great Enemy. He trusted me to defend not just Cathay, but himself… but it wasn't enough. All of us were pushed back to Weijin, the Celestial City. Dragon-blooded and mortals alike bled for Cathay, crushed under the bellowing hordes of Greenskins, cut down ratmen blades, and sacrificed to our enemy…" She closed her eyes. "O-our father's last act was to defend Weijin with our mother before we… we came here."

She came back to the room Yang trying to process what her Great Aunt had told her… she didn't look like Miao. Miao didn't look this afraid, saddened, or… defeated. That was the word. "But… Remnant is safer? Grandfather used to say that…"

"... The Great enemy is not something that can be defeated. It is… anti-harmony. Disorder. Chaos." She paused as if she expected the word to reconjure them back. "It does not die, it does not qute. It can only be opposed, and one day it may come to destroy Remnant just as it did Cathay." She took a breath, looking Yang in her ilac eyes.

Yang wasn't… wasn't sure. She knew it was true, or at least Miao Ying believed it to be true but not just that. Yang realized she was holding her breath as she exhaled and breathed in. "S-so what?"

"You are preparing to be a huntress to defend Remnant from the Grimm, but as a Dragon-blooded, should it come to it, you must defend it from the forces of Disorder." A hand covered in a metal gauntlet found its way to Yang's shoulder. "I would never ask for anyone to bear this burden Yang Xiao Long, but it's one we must bear. If we could come here, then so could they, and perhaps more…"

—-

Weiss wished she stayed behind with Blake. She was growing… tolerant of Ruby, but as it would turn out she was related to Zhao Ming Xiao Long. THAT Zhao Ming Xiao Long. She thought her father had made him up to keep her in line, and he was Ruby's Grandfather?!

It explained so much and yet so little…

"Grandpa's not a bad guy!" Ruby said as they walked to his store. Weiss noted with some distaste the cheesy dragon mascot on the sign as they crossed the lawn. Huntsmen, professional huntsmen and some Beacon Students walked around the area, either leaving with their wares or entering the storefront or some of the labs back there. "I thought you might wanna see his Dust stuff."

"Ruby," Weiss replied as gently as she could. "I know Dust, and if your grandfather is anything like the stories I've heard about him then he's… an expert but in the same way as a mad scientist! He's responsible for half the stuff in the pamphlet I gave you."

"Oh cool! Maybe he'll sign it for you!"

Weiss took a breath. Vale was nice, warm… too friendly though. It was welcome compared to Atlas and the Manor, but she did miss the cold. Ruby at least could visit her family whenever she needed to and to her team RWBY was as welcome as if it was family. Maybe it wouldn't be too bad…

As they entered the store, Ruby waved hello to the employees who were helping huntsmen, and they smiled in turn. Weiss had been in Dust Shops before… well, good ones at any rate, but here it was… homier. Sure, it was technically a specialty store, with Dust ammunition, explosives (Weiss needed to double check on that) as well as books, magazinines…
"We have everything you could possibly need."

Weiss's first sight of the 'Dust Alchemist' was not what she was expecting; he was handsome in a sort of affected way; a nice white-silver suit and pants, hair a bit long, but in a sort of charming way… but it felt off and not just in a salesmen sort of manner. He wore black sunglasses that hid his eyes fairly well, and was particularly animated as he explained his work to his customer.

"And if we don't, we're up for a challenge as well." He smiled, before seeing his granddaughter and her new friend. His pink-haired customer looked to Weiss and Ruby before looking back to the Chemist. "Oh, forgive me ma'am, I'll have Jiang take care of you if you have any more questions?'

The Pink-and-brown girl smiled at him before making a turn, looking at the pair of young huntresses with a look that strangely reminded Weiss of her Grandmother's cat. The Man took off his glasses and accepted Ruby's hug quickly. "Sorry about that; business never ends."

Weiss wasn't sure how to make out the bright, white eyes staring at her. Weiss could see his pupil, but it matched almost completely with the rest of his eyes… She supposed it explained the sunglasses but something about it felt off. "You remind me of someone." The man said to her.

"Weiss Schnee." Weiss said, gauging his reaction. He seemed pleasantly surprised as Ruby wrapped her arm around Weiss with her permission.

"Proud member of Team RWBY!"

"Ah! Yes, now I see it." He smiled. "Well, it's a pleasure to meet you, Miss Schnee. Your grandfather and I used to talk to each other every now and then."

Weiss's smile grew a bit tenser. "You've become a bit of a character for us Mr. Long."

"I'm glad! Very helpful and informative, though a bit overly cautious." He paused. "Happy to see Ruby will have someone to caution against her at least. Yang is a bit too protective sometimes."

"Grandpaaa." Ruby whined. "I'm fine! I've only been the leader for a little while!"

He nodded, petting her hair while he thought for a moment. "Ah, well, the store's a bit crowded for a conversation, let's head to my office." He winked at Weiss. "Family is always welcomed here, blood or not."

—-

The helm belonged to a family she would never meet.

Yang still tried to process the information of Cathay's fall, but in her hands she held the helmet of someone who was family; Miao told her that she died in an assassination by one of the rat men. "Dishonorable foes means dishonorable ends… She deserved better."

Still, it was like holding a piece of herself; something that was mourned by the family it left behind, even if it was just two people now. As tempted as she was to try it on, it felt like an insult to its former owner.

"You're not the leader of team RWBY, but I expected as much." Yang almost jumped. Turning to see Miao look at her with understanding. "Ruby has grown… she's like her mother."

"... Yeah."

Summer Rose left a hole in their family. She loved her mother, but if Yang was honest Raven always felt off, like she was uncomfortable and not sure about her or Ruby. It just came naturally to Summer to be a leader, a mom… and a martyr.

"I'm gonna keep her safe, don't worry." Yang said, placing the Helmet back on the dresser of Miao's room. Much like the rest of the apartment it was too clean, too formal. Did she even need to sleep, Yang wondered.

Miao Ying nodded. "I would expect nothing less from you… Are the others of the team ideal?"

"Well, Weiss Schnee is a bit frosty, but she's been getting along better with Ruby and Blake…" She smiled "you'd like Blake, her nose is always in a book but she's neat, handy in a fight too."

"And when are you going to tell them about this?" Miao smiled. "Your father claims that they only found out in their second year after all."

"I'm sure they'll figure out something… Blake's got the book smarts, Weiss is clever enough, but Ruby and I agreed not to tell them anything until we got your say so."

Miao Ying shook her head. "Yang, you and Ruby have to decide when that truth is revealed. In Cathay, most dragon-blooded couldn't keep quiet about their status for two minutes." She frowned. "I trust you to know when, or if the situation comes up to have a good explanation."

"And if the 'great enemy' ever shows up again?"

Miao looked to the helm. "... If they appear, then they and all of Remnant will be drafted into the conflict whether they want to or not. It will be like a grimm."

"At least the Grimm aren't people…" Yang muttered absentmindedly, which caused Miao Ying to pause for a moment, moving a strand of hair out of her face.

"Yang, I know some of our family think of me as too hard on you, but I didn't tell you about them to frighten you and cause you to worry… I told you so you would be ready should it ever come to it. Until then you are to do your best and excel. Even the blood of Dragons needs to remember to be human."

Yang took a breath; mom told her that… well not those words but the general message too, but she had a duty to Ruby and her father, to her family, and now to a team and Remnant. "I'll try too.."

"Good… Now, I shouldn't keep you; it's important to bond with your peers."

Yang looked to the clean, immaculate bed that was never slept in for a moment. "What are you going to be doing?"

"Investigative work, and remember; tomorrow Ruby is to come with me for training and meditation, as you will with your grandfather; every ability counts."

Yang nodded. "I will, Thank you Great Aunt Miao."

Yang left the bedroom and passed the pictures on her fridge, pausing to think about them… the 'great enemy' was still out there, still a threat… but looking at Ruby's art reminded her of Remnant. It wouldn't take her home so long as she still had breath.

—-

Ruby was talking with her Grandfather in his office, but Weiss needed a chance to relax. Zhao was an interesting man but she could clearly see where Ruby got some of her… eccentricities. Still, those eccentricities weren't all that bad…

The door opened with Ruby smiling, her grandfather following suit. "So, Weiss, uh, can you come in?"

Weiss didn't see any reason why not to, so she did. The office was… oddly small, his desk strewn with papers with a computer screen on it as well as pictures of family. Ruby stared a bit at a picture of her grandfather with a white-haired woman with equally pale eyes, though with silvery-white hair, and a group of four young Beacon Students; one bore a resemblance to Yang, the other to Ruby, along with a very relaxed man and a woman with a smug expression with her arms around her teammates.

The crown in the display case caught Weiss' attention; a strange dull green stone, almost like jade, sat in the center of the crown prominently. Zhao caught the look with a bemused expression. "Ah that… that is something from an old age. Barely means anything now." Zhao Ming smiled a bit at Weiss as he sat down. "Sorry about the mess; Paperwork was always more for my brother. So, I suppose you might have some questions?"
"I feel a Dust Shop and… laboratory is understandable enough." Weiss said coolly. "It's just a bit eccentric?"

Zhao nodded. "I'd say that describes us well. I was half-way hoping you might take interest in Dust Chemistry. We do teach classes here for that after all, your headmaster even lets some take it as an elective, that Nikos girl signed up for it."

"I see." She might have to follow up on that actually, but for now she had a more important question. "So… I have to ask, in your correspondence with my grandfather he mentioned something about your work… something that he couldn't quite replicate."

"W-Well-" Ruby said a little too quickly, catching on. "You know it's probably a company secret right?"

Zhao's eyes had a glint to them. "Ruby is right. Though you'll probably learn the secret later on, I don't think it's appropriate for the moment, given you're both just students. It is a family trade after all."

Weiss's eyes widened at the idea. "With all due respect sir, it's… more confusion. My family has its own secrets but…"

She looked at Ruby. "I noticed something during the initiation. Something I'm just not sure about." Grandmother was very clear about magic; useful but dangerous, incredibly dangerous without the discipline and training. And if Ruby and Yang could do so then that could only mean…

Maybe Ozpin had a different reason for putting her with Ruby then she thought.

"Well those secrets are secrets for a reason." Zhao said as a look of understanding came over his face. "I… always did want to visit Atlas. Last time I saw a good bit of traveling was during the old days before all of this. Perhaps I should have taken a look then."

"Grandfather?" Ruby asked, and Weiss noted the change as worry crept into the girl's voice. Zhao dismissed it with a grin.

"Ah, sorry Ruby… Well, Miss Schnee, if this secret is what I assume it is then don't worry, it's safe with us."

Zhao Ming looked at the young girl before him. Hair white as snow and eyes a cold blue, one slightly marred with a scar, appraising her a bit closer. "I have a feeling Ruby can learn much from you."

They continued to speak, but Zhao didn't keep them from meeting up with Yang when the time came.
As Weiss left, Zhao looked behind him to his crown and on his true home and for a brief moment wondered at the possibilities.

He smiled to himself, however. Ruby really was like her mother in getting the most interesting people around her. Whatever the case was, team RWBY was going to excel; after all his granddaughters were in it.

—-

"Yang?"

Late Saturday Knight, Yang had said she needed air. Ruby was worried about her, but she and Weiss were working on homework and discussing something in private. Blake however noticed the difference as well.

Finding her wasn't too hard; Yang had a way of standing out, and the outside patio where Yang seemed to stare hard at the half-moon as if it would fall down at any moment. Blake called her name again, causing the blonde to turn her head, the expression's change was immediate.

Yang smiled a bit. "Hey Blake… Late night walk?"

"I was looking for you actually."

"I was heading back now I just…" Blake watched the mask fall off for just a moment.

"Did something happen to your Aunt?"

"Great Aunt." Yang corrected. "And… yeah you could say that."

There was a pause as neither of the girls really knew what to say. "She's a great person don't get me wrong." Yang added a bit too late. "It's just… it was a heavy kinda conversation ya know?"

"I know the feeling." Blake replied. She was curious of course but it was late, and more importantly she just wasn't sure what to make of Yang. She was tall, strong, and seemed to be ready for anything. She'd been helpful for a few assignments they had and both she and her sister seemed eager to try to bond with the team… but Yang looked like she was hiding her own baggage.


"You… ever have a dream that feels really real?" Yang said, trying to change the topic, but Blake didn't mind it in the slightest, nodding in response. "I've had a dream since I was young enough to remember being able to fly. I'd just… get up there in the sky and watch the world. See Vale as an ocean of green, Atlas a nice and cold white. I know it's a bit cheesy but sometimes I feel like it's all something that needs my help…"

She paused for a moment to look back at the moon. "My Great aunt told me about life 'before' and it just got to me."

"Well, you can't fix the moon, right?" Blake quoted, her voice doing little to hide her sympathy… "At least we can make a difference here…" Blake trailed off as Yang looked at her again. If she was honest she… still wasn't sure this was the best path for what she wanted. She could agree at least with Yang; Remnant needed to be better.

"I hope so." Yang said, before the smile came back a bit more genuine. "Let's head back. I didn't mean to make you guys worry."

"It's still just the first week." Blake said as they began to walk together.

"Ha, yeah. I mean I'd hate to say I chickened out now." Yang grinned. "Maybe I need to relax a bit… might have to catch up on my reading…"

"I thought you weren't the type." Blake said, though she already tried to think of some books she could recommend or lend. She could only take so much with her here.

"I'm not really but my Great Aunt gave Rubes and me a rule about trying to read at least five books a year. Ruby tried to get out of it with some comics once actually."

"Well, i'm just about finished with My Adventures with Gotrek," Blake said. "A… friend lent it to me and it's interesting at least. Fantasy is weird but the Author makes it feel real."

Yang grinned. "Sounds up my alley then, I'll give it a try. Thanks, partner."

Blake smiled. Yeah… the sisters were weird, that much was true, but it was the kind of weird Blake could tolerate.

 

[Yin-Yin Fan]

Schnee Manor was cold, and not in the way all of Atlas and Mantle were. Winter was named after the season that Atlas embodied, but Grandmother taught her what the words cold and winter actually meant. The tension of the house was comparable to thin ice over a lake; one wrong move, and it would crack and spread. She had already started the process with her application to Atlas Academy. Whatever fate awaited her there was surely better than getting caught in the blizzard that was brewing.

But she had things she would miss… Her siblings, Klein, her grandmother and mother. Sure it wasn't far away, geographically speaking, but it was four years of time with them reduced to just hours. Weiss was old enough now to take care of herself with Klein's care, and hopefully grandmother wouldn't push her too hard in her training. It was odd to think that in just a few days she'd be elsewhere…

"Winter, may I come in?"

Winter looked up from her desk to the door, a small feeling of worry in the back of her head. Sure, it was just her grandmother, but… Well, it wasn't often grandmother approached them. Still she opened the door just the same to see her.

Perhaps the most striking thing about her grandmother was just how young she appeared to be. She had aged from the photographs that Winter had seen with her before; a few more wrinkles on her face, her hair slowly starting to gray from its dark tone. And despite that she seemed to still have some youth in her. She was a little older than her grandfather even when they met, and yet she never seemed to change from then…

Her cat, however, didn't change at all as it leapt onto Winter's bed and looked at her with a predator's smug, yet vaguely placid interest. Winter didn't have a problem with it; it might have been a leopard but she was a cat and more importantly it knew better. "Dasha…" Winter greeted it, to which it responded by raising its head slightly before becoming more comfortable on her bed.

Winter decided it was best not to try to remove Dasha from her bed as she just looked at her grandmother's face. She had a stern expression, but eyes that weren't quite unkind, she appraised her, hesitating for a moment before speaking. "It's almost time for you to leave."

"It's still hours away, grandmother." Winter said. "In fact… almost a day."

"The time will pass soon, and there are some things that need to be seen to before then." She paused before smiling a bit. "Perhaps it will give Klein time to get Dasha's fur out of your bed."

"Is this something about… that?"

"Of a sort." She admitted, turning her back. "I'd like this matter to be settled quietly, no need to worry your father about this."

"Of course." Winter replied. Her father let her be taught self-defense; being a Huntress was something else, another thing that caused the ice to overtake Schnee manor… But within ice was power, and Grandmother hadn't spent years teaching her as much as she could in secret. It was the legacy of Grandmother's homeland.

Kislev.

—-

Weiss thought she was scary, and Katarin couldn't blame her. Weiss was like Nicholas in a few ways: a good heart was there with wide, curious eyes that held the icy blue of the Bokhas but with hints of the Schnee line. She was small, thin, but at the same time she possessed a strength of heart Katarin needed to see manifest for what she needed her to learn.

She lead them to a room Nicholas had made for her; hidden in the cellar. Both Wiess and Winter weren't sure where they were being led, the servants they passed just gave Katarin one look before returning to their duties. By the time they got to the cellar she passed a few rows before making a left, to a wall that had the Schnee Family emblem.

"Is this-?"

"Yes." Katarin replied. Winter watched as the emblem was activated by her aura, the wall splitting open and slowly moving back, sinking into the walls as the three stepped through past a small hall to see a room. Not a very big room; the lights were bright, showing just enough space that with a little decoration it could have been part of the maid-room. Two blue carpets in the center stood in front of the room's most striking feature: a statue of a large bear. It wore a crown that seemed to have been made with forst, eyes, brilliant sapphires that captured a sort of kindness and yet stoicism. It roared at the ceiling, paws raised as if to strike down at some foe. Beneath a table with three display cases and various things from kislev, saved to be passed down to them.

"He's so big… i-is that Great-Grandfather's bear?"

Winter frowned. "That's Ursun."

"Oh… He's very big."

"... He was far bigger in person." Katarin confirmed. Seeing the statue of Kislev's beloved god still stirred her heart. So many died for him, and he loved his people and gave them respite from endless winter… but it was not enough. He was the reason she had this life; one last sacrifice for Kislev. "I understand it is difficult to believe, but he was once there for Kislev."

She walked forwards, Winter holding Weiss back for the moment as she went to the center table. For the first time in years, she took Fearfrost in her hands and turned to face the granddaughter she raised as a worthy heir.

"Winter Schnee. This blade has been handed down through generations. It is a mark of power for those who would have once ruled Kislev." She looked at Winter's expression; she was nervous but her face was cold as a glacier. "This blade has served Kislev for generations, and it can only be wielded by a worthy heir to its legacy. It is a weapon that will kill Grimm as well as men. Are you ready to wield it?"

"I… I am."

"Men cannot wield this weapon without freezing on the spot." She said, glazing at Weiss who seemed to be waiting with baited breath. "This is not something to be taken lightly, Winter. Like all magic, it's not a toy; there are consequences to it if you are not prepared. I have done all i could to prepare you, but if there is any reason to doubt yourself…"
Winter nodded, but hesitated once again. "Winter?"

Winter glanced at her sister and smiled with a confidence she didn't have. Winter took the handle from her grandmother, who watched with worry clear on her face. The handle was so cold it burned for a moment, Winter's Aura flaring to meet it. Pain shot from her hand through her body for a moment that lasted to Winter for an eternity…

And yet, it passed. Winter let out a breath as Fearfrost felt just like her training sword, lighter in fact. Katarin embraced her granddaughter and Weiss joined in.

"Thank Ursun…" Katarin said, unable to hide the relief in her voice. She looked at Weiss… Training Winter was… was something she didn't want to do, but she alone showed the promise to wield it. Weiss was too much like him…

But Weiss wished to be a part of what remained of Kislev, so she would try once she was just a bit older.

—-

"The Kingdom of Vale is quite a distance." Grandmother Katarin noted, looking at the statue of Ursun as Weiss ran through her drills. "Why there?"

Weiss didn't answer, she didn't need to really. Her concentration was better spent trying to withstand the cold. Both granddaughters would leave this manor… perhaps that was for the best, Katarin thought. Whitely had potential to be a fine young man, but given Jaques she wondered about him. The man had a way of trying to crush Nicholas's legacy if it meant he could exploit it. Her only daughter was a consequence of that… wearing her down.

This Manor was not like the Ice Court: Her will was not law, but she would not relent. She had seen the Realms of Chaos, saw one of her gods dying and bleeding, and thought against horrors she prayed dearly to never see again. That man thought he could outlast her…

Perhaps that might be true. But if he thought she would just lay down and die he didn't know her well enough.

"Grandmother!"

The small blizzard turned down as she looked at Weiss. "Forgive me, my thoughts… wander."

Weiss just tried to keep warm. "It's fine, grandmother. I'm nervous too."

"About your father's challenge?" Katarin scoffed. Honestly the man had such pride it was a wonder what Willow saw in him… "You will succeed, there is no doubt in my mind."


"Thank you." Weiss replied. "Should I put this into practice then?"

"That is for you to decide." Katarin said. "This is your heritage, and if he declares it invalid then your father is as honorless as I thought. If you are the Heir to my husband's legacy then I know that there is no force on Remnant or elsewhere that could stop you." She smiled slightly, gesturing for her to sit before the Great Bear. Weiss obliged, sitting to her right before the table.

"You're a grown woman now Weiss… The Grimm isn't the only evil in this world, but You and Winter… both of you will meet it."

"You sound tired grandmother." Weiss said, a bit alarmed as the stress was visible on the woman's face… she was getting older. Weiss's training made it clear that Katarin only had one thing to see too before-

"I am very tired, Weiss. " She agreed. "But we have little other means of training you in the ways of the Ice Court… unless perhaps you wish to brave the Atlesian Wilderness."

"... Maybe one day."

Katarin smiled. "And that is why you should not worry about whatever Jaques will bring against you. I've trained Winter to be heir to Kislev… You are the Heir to the Schnees…" her face turned to Ursun's statue. "I have nothing to give you but wisdom, I'm afraid. Remnants are such a far cry from Kislev… At times it almost seems like a dream…"

At times she felt that at any moment, she would wake up. The Chaos gods would remove the veil over her eyes as she saw the same twisted hellscape that she had saved Ursun from, and the laughter of their daemons…

But Nicholas, Willow, her grandchildren… they were worth fighting for, keeping her here and now.

She placed a hand one Weiss's shoulder. "I think the both of us are finished here for now." She took Weiss following her lead. Dasha met them at the entrance… They left the Shrine to Ursun alone, the Emblem of the Schnee family sliding back into place, as if it was simply a decoration…on the other side a small symbol of the Ice Court on the opposite side. Weiss looked at if for a moment, smiling.

What could Remnant throw at her that her ancestors couldn't beat?

An: I feel really bad for the guy who thought Weiss was a half-elf.

 

[Yin-Yin Fan]

Raven looked at the infant. She remembered when Yang was that small…

She wasn't sure how she would feel about being woken up constantly at night again, but Summer assured her she would care for her. The kid looked like Summer in a weird way: what little hair the baby had was the same dark hair, and when the kid was awake the same silver eyes… Given what that meant for her according to Ozpin she wondered how Summer could be so utterly happy and calm.

"Ruby Rose, huh?" Raven said aloud, turning to her friend on the bed. "Ya knows, I was expecting something more dramatic from you."

Summer smiled; that same type of smile she had since the two had met. "I like the alliteration. It's fun, you know."

"It's got a ring to it." Raven admitted, sitting down in the chair. Soon, Summer would be home; Yang was already asking when she could see the baby, and of course Miao would not leave her alone asking who's kid it was… In-laws were a pain in the ass, even if they were dragons.

"You know, I still remember when you found out you were expecting. You looked so nervous about it until Yang was born."

Raven blushed, "Summer c'mon, It was an honest question!"

"Miao's face was hilarious, and it was worth it." Summer sighed. "I'm… glad you're here with me Raven."

Raven paused, trying not to look at Summer. "It's nothing…"

Summer's smile faded a bit, looking at her daughter. "We're all in this together now, a family… I never thought I'd have one again, like this…"

Raven sighed. "... Yeah, it's… nice." She never thought she'd say that if she was honest. She always imagined her future to be more…exciting? Still, there was a certain measure of peace she had here… She wished it could last forever.

—-

"Mom?"

Raven groaned as she heard her daughter's voice and the scampering of Zwei as they both entered the bedroom she shared with Tai. The big lug was snoring, fast asleep as Yang entered with the annoying energy little kids seemed to possess. "Mom, it's Saturday."

"Yeah, I know." Raven sighed, eyes narrowing. She forgot something, didn't she? Did she promise to take Yang to buy a video game? No, it was too early, what could…

"D-did you forget?" Yang asked punctuated by Zwei's confused growl.

"Of course, I didn't." Raven lied, stretching as her brain scrambled to find the right answer. Let's see: Anniversary? No, Taiyang would have been obvious about it… Holiday? No, she'd have gotten something for it then, so it had to be- "it's Ruby's birthday, right?"

"Yep! And you promised to help me make cookies for her." Yang got a pout that made Raven roll her eyes. "And you're not going to break your promise, are you?"

"'Course not, but Yang, it's-" She looked at a nearby clock. "... 8: 00 am."

"I got a little eager, that's all." Yang protested back. "'Sides, we gotta get dad up early for breakfast. Grandpa and Aunt Miao are coming too so… ya know, gotta get ready for that."

Raven closed her eyes and took a deep breath. Alright, okay. It was just Ruby's birthday and baking cookies.. How hard could it be?

—

Miao stopped by a cafe; tea parlors were a bit too… outdated for Vale, whatever that meant. She would hardly call herself the biggest fan of them, but tea was good; it calmed the nerves and didn't dull her senses like Alcohol could.

Her Scroll rang; with some annoyance she took it out as she sat at the table. Just a message from Zhao.

G'mornin' Sister! Did u get Ruby her gift?​

Miao paused to try to find a proper response… Honestly, she hated these. Convenient as Scrolls where she would much prefer it if they encouraged proper grammar. Humans always seemed to rush through everything.


I am still attempting to find a proper one. I will have it by the time we go to visit them.

I think she wanted this​

Miao's eyes narrowed. The image of a stuffed rabbit was a bit… too much. Star-Made Huntress has some educational elements, but Ruby simply enjoyed the fiction and wanted a toy. She was only a child, but she had already grown… and of course Ruby still enjoyed subjecting the dragon to Remnant's children's entertainment. Remnant bred comfort, comfort bred complacency and complacency bred laziness and that bred-

I will see if I can find it.

Good! See U at 12? 1?​

Miao answered the latter… Humanity here certainly improved from paper and pen, she wouldn't deny, but she hoped Her grandnieces would be better than some of the lazy magistrates she had to deal with. At the same time however it was Ruby's birthday, and her mother and father were happy to indulge her wishes when she was a child.

Not that anyone needed to hear about that.

—-

Raven looked over the list. Summer and Tai usually did the cooking in the house but since Summer… She tried to make up for it. It never worked but dammit she tried, and she had to try for this. They decided to start it after lunch, and Yang decided to distract Ruby with that video game they liked. She'd get Yang back for this, but she needed to focus.

"Raven?"

She looked up from the recipe to see her Husband. Tai had a warm smile on his face, but his eyes told her he could see the real reason she was hesitating. "You need some help."

"I CAN cook, ya know… Summer wrote it all down. It's not that hard."

Of course, she knew she could never replicate it. She had them before; She sometimes made them for important events, the anniversary their team was formed, Yang's birthday, Raven's birthday, holidays… They were the best cookies, which is the only thing that both She and Qrow agreed on in their Beacon days.

"... You sure."

Raven sighed. "Fine fine… not like either of us can mess it up too bad right?"

Taiyang just sighed as he joined her on the other side. On the kitchen counter. "It's mostly just getting the ratio right… Summer's handwriting can be hard to read."

"It's called cursive." Tai chided as he was handed the note.

"We didn't have time for the fancy stuff in Anima." Raven countered as she began to actually start mixing the flour. "Print is fine! And more importantly legible!"

"I think that's the most you've told me of your home." Tai replied. "Pass me the eggs?"

Raven did. "Tai it's… complicated. It's been a long time since I've been back there for a reason." A lie. She didn't like it, but Tai trusted her. She wondered how he and Summer could be so naive, especially given Miao figured something out. Though now that she thought of it, Summer always seemed to try to keep her close…

The batter was coming along well, though Tai shot her that look of sympathy that made her blush. She should tell him; she knew but the smart part of her brain told her she'd mess everything up here. After all, Tai trusted her. Yang did, Ruby probably did, the dog… she was 50/50 on but it was a dog.

Tai almost made her jump when he put a hand on her shoulder. " I'm Sorry." He said genuinely. "It's just… you and Qrow are usually kinda quiet about this stuff so sometimes."

Raven smiled. "Don't worry about it. The past is the past and we're celebrating Ruby's future today." It worked, Tai dropped it and they got to actually cooking together. She still had trouble looking at Summer's recipe though…

She should have been here, a part of her would always think, instead of her.

—-

It was the first birthday she had without her mom. She was only six but it still hurt. Yang could tell too, everyone missed her. Even Miao Ying told her it was alright to be sad. Auntie Raven and Dad tried to help her too… it was hard, always would be but she had her family at least. Just minus one.

Zwei was on her lap as she played a round of that fighting game Yang liked and let her play sometimes, even if she wasn't good. She liked playing as the green one and Yang liked playing as the Girl with a Big hat.

Ruby wasn't good at the game, but she was good at mashing buttons and occasionally got out the flashy super moves which were enough to make Yang play defensively until she found an opening to beat her up.

Which was fun, in a weird way.

A knock on their window caused Zwei to jump and yip at it as Yang mercifully paused before her character could do a throw to look to see their uncle… wait Uncle Qrow?!

Ruby opened the window for him as he entered, Yang and her embracing him just as he managed to get in. "Hey, give me some space, I just got here!" He smiled though, roughling ruby's hair (Ruby knew he couldn't get away with that with Yang without a punch) "Happy Birthday kid.

Zwei yapped happily at them as Ruby followed them to let the family know their uncle was here. Yang however, stopped her before she could go downstairs. "You shouldn't spoil the surprise, Ruby."

"It's my birthday! And I have a nose! I know it's cookies!"

Yang paused. "W-Well it's supposed to be a surprise."

Qrow chuckled. "I'd just count our blessings, considering my sister hasn't burnt them yet."

"I HEARD THAT!"

"Good, your hearing still works. Glad that hasn't changed."

The Three (and Zwei who didn't know what was going on but was excited) all headed downstairs and went to the living room. The smell… didn't match her mother's cookies, but they still smelled good. Seeing dad and auntie Raven in the kitchen made her smile at least. "Glad you made it Qrow."

"Believe me you're not the only one." He sighed. "Those kids are gonna kill me…"

"What happened? Oh, did a Grimm get loose in class?"

"That stuff's more for Beacon stuff honestly." Qrow replied, speaking for experience. "Tempting as it is sometimes. Which is why Raven's not teaching."

"Mom wouldn't-" Yang paused. "Actually, I can see that…"

There was a bit of silence as Zwei jumped to Ruby's lap on the chair and became comfortable. Ruby smiled as she pet her little friend. "Did your dad tell you when he'd be here?" Qrow called out.

"He says soon, then we can eat." Dad assured him. They were going to make her favorite and the cookies would be great, she could tell but…

She just wished everyone could be here…

—

"Zhao, please do not give the dog food."

"Look at him, Sister, he's begging me."

Miao sighed. That dog was not normal. She couldn't prove it yet, but it seemed too smart to be a normal dog with it clearly beginning to realize which family members were susceptible to his tricks.

"He might get sick if you give him too much though." Yang said… before doing it herself. Ruby for her part seemed to be harder to get to giving up her own food but she got to enjoy it without Zwei's attention.

Raven looked to her daughter for a moment before she stopped, Zwei whining a bit before moving back to the much more receptive Zhao. "So, Business doing good, Zhao?"

"Oh yes, quite well. It was a bit rough at the start of the year for a bit, but hopefully things will clear up now that the medicine research has been approved." He grinned. "And hopefully Yang will be able to learn safely there, more or less."

"Finally?! I-mean, really grandpa?"

Miao sighed. "Magic is not a toy Yang, it's a tremendous responsibility." She glared at her brother. "Enthusiasm is fine, but it is dangerous."

"So's Aura and Semblances." Raven replied to a bit harshly. "Yang's going to be fine, it's in her blood apparently."

Yang just watched the two glare at each other as Miao sighed. It was the sort of Sigh she'd give out as if explaining to a child that fire was hot. "You do not understand what it is like to have the blood of dragons, Raven Branwen. This is an important part of Yang's development, something that is not to be rushed." She looked pointed at Zhao for that.

"Aunt Miao c'mon she's just excited to start."

Miao sighed. "Taiyang, you know as well as we are supposed to that there's consequences, and Yang needs to take her time. Her Aura and Semblance help her to protect herself, this is giving a weapon to a child in some ways."

"When I was her age-" Raven looked to Qrow for backup on this and Qrow seemed to be trying to ignore this argument as hard as possible. "I already knew how to swing a sword."

"Yang is not being raised out in the wilderness." Miao remarked.

Yang shrunk back just a bit, trying to make herself seem small, next to Ruby it was quite a task. Raven to turn slightly red in anger. "Yeah, she's being raised by her family. Me and Taiyang. You might be her great aunt but that doesn't give you a right over anything about her."

"Excuse me?"

"You heard me." Raven replied. "I've known her since she was born, and the kid can do whatever the hell she wants, it's her life."

Zhao coughed before Miao could reply. "You know I'm reminded of the old family gatherings we used to have… granted that you at least tried to relax a bit, sister."

Taiyang put a hand on Raven's shoulder. "It's Ruby's birthday. We should just set aside the dragon stuff."

"Dragon 'stuff?!'"

"Yeah I think," Qrow said, looking at Yang and Ruby. "It's about time for those cookies you were making."

Raven would have said something before she shared a look at Tai before sighing. "Fine yeah alright."

It wasn't over, but it was a start. Ruby looked to her sister who seemed to just be relieved that two people she loved weren't going to get into a shouting match. Ruby looked to the plate full of chocolate chip cookies; they smelled familiar but they looked a little bit drier than moms used to be.

Zhao handed her one before taking one for himself. "Hmm. they're good."

Tai offered one to his aunt who looked at them and then Raven for a moment. "I should not overindulge on sweets."

Zhao chuckled. "You know," He looked at Tai. "She wasn't always like that. I remember your grandmother telling me about her first birthday."

"... of course, she told you."

"Well, you were a growing dragon back then," Zhao said good naturedly. "Though given how much you disliked the Ogres I was surprised to hear you eating a mountain of cake."

"Only 20, and I was very, very young." Miao defended herself.

Ruby gingerly took a cookie in her hands, Raven looking a bit nervous but expectantly at her as she took a bite.

It wasn't like her mom's; it was crunchier and rougher, but it still tasted familiar enough.

—-

Raven stared out at the stars, alone. She remembered when she was a child when she would look up at the stars and just think of what she could do. Now as adult possibilities just seem so very limited. Summer and Taiyang made it worth it and Qrow… Well he was mostly the same but was just happy to be away from the tribe. She didn't understand it herself; no one on Remnant was clean. Even Miao and Zhao had some dark secrets from it; she doubted Cathay was this grand paradise they tried to paint it as. What did it matter though? If the wall ever broke down and Salem did… whatever the hell she wanted to do, then it would be everyone out for themselves.

She always pictured herself becoming the Leader of the tribe; it wouldn't be an easy life sure, but it would be fun, exciting. It was the reason they became huntsmen; to know how to take them down and it should have been easy, until she met Summer and Tai and then Miao…

Things in life needed to be earned. Even thieves and bandits knew that; if they got it from you, clearly, they deserve it more and if you could fight back that proved they shouldn't have messed with you. It was just a basic proof of life.

So why did she have this? This was Summer's. If anyone deserved this, it was Summer Rose the hero not Raven Branwen…

"Auntie?"

Raven sat up from the grass as Ruby came running towards her, her stuffed toy of a rabbit from that cartoon she watched in her hands. "Are you okay?"

"I'm fine." Raven replied, watching the silver-eyed girl as she seemed to hide behind her new toy. "Just needed some outside"

"Like Great Auntie?"

Raven didn't answer. "Why aren't you inside?"

"Dad wanted to talk with Yang and Grandpa is talking to Miao so."

Ruby noticed that Raven never really looked her in the eyes. "So you didn't want me to be left out of family time huh."

"Nope." Ruby Agreed.

"Did you… like the cookies?"

"They were good!" Ruby assured her. "Different but good."

"Different huh.." Raven repeated. "Sorry… i tried to follow her recipe but-"

"I like 'em different tho." Ruby replied. "Like it would be weird if they were exactly the same."

The older woman shook her head. "Was I at least close?"

"Um… I guess?" Ruby said with a silly look on her face. "It was crunchy."

"Must have overcooked it."

Raven looked at the house; The 'team' house, Summer and Tai had called it. She never felt like it was hers… none of this was hers. She was just so out of place and out of her depth here. She should have had a simple life of banditry. Dragons just had to complicate things. "It's getting late.

Ruby followed her auntie. "Why don't you like Miao?"

"Miao's… complicated. She's gotta have everything under her thumb." She practically did if Raven was honest. "I don't think she can smile. But… I don't hate her." Honestly hating her was too much. She was just a pain in the ass and it had nothing to do with the fact she could smite her with lightning…. She even remembered finding out that she was an alien dragon-person the hard way.

Still, they understood each other. Raven looked conspiratorially before she opened the door to the house. "Ruby? I have to ask ya something… I'm worried about Yang. She had that Dragon Dream again?"

"She has it every now and then." Ruby replied, a bit confused. 'I think it's cool. Miao says that i'm not allowed to ride her if she becomes a dragon though."

"I really think we won't have to worry about that but… Look, can you try to cheer Yang up anytime she needs it?"

Ruby tilted her head before Raven sighed. "Yang has a lot on her plate, I guess… I just want her to be what she wants to be, so if you think she's down just… try to make her smile, okay? I can try too, it's just... Not what I'm best at."

Ruby seemed to consider it before nodding… and giving Raven a hug. Raven didn't know how to react as she entered the house. Raven paused…

She really was just like her mother… Raven brushed some hair out of her face before she entered the house herself. She's trying, for Summer's sake at least, to give them a family. Miao be damned.

AN: So, Ruby's Birthday is today, so i thought i would try to do something like this to celebrate. Ruby and Raven's relasionship and how Raven feels about being 'stuck' there. I hope you liked it and have a happy halloween. This is more of a bonus as i was hoping to have one-interlude at the end of every arc (or around there).

 

[Yin-Yin Fan]

He wasn't sure about Crocea Mors; it wasn't his, not really. Sure, his grandparents had been encouraging but also his grandmother could kick his ass and did so repeatedly (almost by accident) while teaching him the basics. It was… really embarrassing, even by his standards.

Still growing up hearing stories of knights fighting monsters and the Great War… Jaune had to try.

After his near-death experience, he was starting to doubt that he could make something of himself. Sure, he managed to survive, Pyrrha was helping him, and the stuff in Forever Fall was still recent but he messed up, like usual… it was only a matter of time until he messed up again, and that time might have… permanent consequences. His forged documents had worked out (He was starting to think Ozpin was testing his bluff) but he was more worried about keeping up.

So he needed to make the most of it. Lagging behind after everything he did to get here would mean that all that lying was for nothing. Sure, he had a few close calls, but… well, his team depended on him, and that was a vow he was going to keep. So he was training with Pyrrha.

And like in most of his training he was already getting his ass kicked. Pyrrha insisted that it wasn't on him but… well it was. His grandmother and grandfather tried to keep him sharp with sword play, but his dad… wanted him to stay out of this sort of life. So As Jaune stood and dusted himself off, he wondered if he was actually improving.

"Sorry!" Pyrrha called out. Aside from slight wounded pride (Well, sort of; not Pyrrha's fault he wasn't that strong.) he was mostly fine.

They weren't the only ones in the area sparring of course; Beacon was a huntsmen school and on some level everyone there liked a good scrap far as Jaune could tell. "It's alright. I've been through worse already."

Pyrrha smiled, handing him a water bottle. "It's true. You're improving. Just keep at it."

Jaune didn't feel like he was improving. "You never told me where you learned to fight with Crocea Mors."

"It's in the family," Jaune said. "We have a… history of heroism." Well, his dad's side did. Grandma said her family wasn't that notable. Crocea Mors belonged there… with his great-great-or so grandfather. Not him.

"So, your father?"

Jaune had to stifle a laugh. "Oh no, he's… a good guy don't get me wrong but he never saw eye to eye with the family. I was lucky my mom's parents taught me the basics." Well, Grandpa and Grandma lived with them. Grandma was practically the village leader with most of the higher-ups there terrified of making her angry and beloved by the community. The other side was… well, weird.

Pyrrha nodded in understanding. "Well, there's still room for improvement here, Monsieur Arc."

Jaune looked at her for a moment before she blushed. "H-how much have you overheard from me and Weiss?"

Pyrrha didn't look him in his eyes. "Enough?"

Great; embarrassing himself was already too easy but at least it used to be restricted to just Weiss. "I-I think it's fine."

"It's not working," he sighed. "Honestly not sure what i'm doing wrong."

"You could try being yourself." Pyrrha said.

Jaune just smiled sheepishly. "That's great advice for a lot of people but… I've never had much luck with that." He let out a breath. "Well, persistence works too I guess."

"... I'm not sure about that."

—-

Nora pondered on Ren's proposal; she didn't like it, not one bit. "But Ren, if we don't get them back for it then they're gonna find a way to pick on Jaune again. We have to make them regret it."

"Jaune settled it, and I think that's good enough." Ren argued. "Best to leave it be for now. I doubt Cardin would be giving any trouble."

"At least let me break his legs?" Nora pleaded.

"I'd rather not get expelled."

"Why would you get expelled?" Nora then understood and got a gleam in her eyes. "Oh, alright. I'll make sure to do it in secret then!"

"It's not a secret if you announce it to everyone." Ren sighed. "And then they won't know why you're doing it to them."

"That's the beauty of it Ren; they probably did something to deserve it!"

The two would have bickered for longer when they spotted Yang in casual clothes and holding a book going in the opposite direction. "You guys talking about revenge?"

"Yep!" Nora replied with gusto. "Wanna help?"

"I'd love to but my Grandpa wanted to see me." Yang said with a shrug. "I'll try to help out later if I can."


"Sounds good! Say hi to your grandpa for me, and maybe put in a good word for Pyrrha?"

"I can't make promises but I'll let him know." Yang said with a grin. "But she still has to work for an A."

Ren frowned. "Oh, your grandfather is that 'Dust Alchemist' in Vale. I almost forgot."

"Yeah it's not something we like to brag about." Yang said with a shrug. "Don't tell him I said that though."

Yang paused. "Oh and, well, Worried about Ruby being bored with the Ice Queen and Blake there, so if you can poke your head in and make sure she's not bored to death, I'd appreciate it!"

—-

Yang went up to Jiang; she'd only been on the staff for a year or so but she was perhaps the only one here as passionate as her Grandfather in chemistry. She adjusted her glasses a bit as Yang approached. "Is my grandfather in?"

"He's in the labs, you know how he is when he gets into it." She closed her eyes with a bit of an admiring smile. "Make sure you're wearing the proper safety gear if you're going in~!"

Yang nodded, having been doing that since she was twelve

To fully master the Lore of Yang (and it was her lore; her name was right there and everything) you needed to know its aspects as best you could, and Grandpa was an expert on metal. She was just okay at it, and being just 'okay' at something was not good enough for Dragons like herself.

Sure, technically she just needed to master her lore, but she'd seen grandpa showing off before and knew that it could be helpful. She just couldn't get into the mindset… She thanked Jiang before heading to the labs. They always sort of reminded her of the days she'd stop over to visit him and aunt Miao; the smell of various substances and the aftereffects of Dust-use.

Dust was, according to Grandpa, exclusive to Remnant, though 'certain substances in my Provinces functioned somewhat similarly.' but he always got cagey and twitchy whenever she brought it up. She'd have to ask Weiss for more of the specifics (granted Weiss seemed to think grandpa was some sort of cackling mad scientist, which was hardly fair, his laughs could hardly be called cackling.)

She put on the safety equipment, which consisted of gloves, a face mask and goggles as well as a lab coat. Taking the new book inside was… a risky proposition given Grandpa might be trying to make super acid again but it was one she was willing to take.

Zhao Ming looked up from his work over to his granddaughter and grinned. "Ah, Hello Yang! Is it time to start today?"

"It's a bit early." Yang replied… in fact she was half an hour early. "I just needed to see you about some stuff."

"You know you can text me anytime." Zhao replied, turning his attention to his beaker as he added some powered Plant Dust to a clear beaker. "Well, why not start early then? Mind doing the honors?"

Yang smiled behind the mask as she walked over. "How hot do you want me to shoot for?"

"Hot enough to bring the water to a boil." Zhao watched Yang put her hand underneath the beaker and focused. Her Aura liked Aqshy, and it was the foundational part of her power. All she needed was some focus on heart, fire, excitement and she could heat the beaker easily.

The Green Dust mixed and reacted to the heat, as the Frost-Dust within tried to balance it out. Yang watched it absentmindedly, wondering just what her grandfather was brewing.

He took it in his hands and Yang powered down the flames until they were nothing but warmth in her hands, yearning to burn more. She could sympathize a little but she knew deep in her soul there would be a time to let the fire loose.

Zhao set it on a holder under the much more practical burner before looking back to Yang. "Well that's good for a warm-up I think."

Yang grinned a bit. "I'm already getting fired up for whatever we're gonna do today."

"Well, you caught me just in time, I need to wait for it to cook a little more." He smiled. "So, what is it you wanted to show me? Usually you try to get here a bit later."

"Well, my new partner gave me an interesting book to read," She said. It was… an old book. The pages looked worn and yellowed, it was bound tightly and had seen some wear and tear, and the cover. "It… sounds like the book took place in your world…"

Yang always found it awkward to say aloud, sort of like confessing something that didn't quite fit. Miao's talk with her reinforced it… maybe it was just the idea that a whole world of people, things like King Greasy and people just trying to live their lives could die and everyone on Remnant remained blissfully ignorant of it that bothered her, like she had to lie about something important. Her grandfather took her meaning though as he opened the book.

"'Altdorf Press'... 'My Adventures with Gotrek'? This is genuine alright." Zhao cracked a smile and started chuckling. "Oh, i'll have to ask Miao about this, if it's okay."

"Of course uh, though I think Blake's gonna want that book back eventually. Said a friend lent it to her."

Zhao looked back at his work, Yang taking the book back and gently placing it on the counter. "Ruby mentioned her to me before; the 'broody one'?"

"I… feel like I should defend her but… yeah that works." Yang said. "But she's nice enough once you get past it."

"'Cold and Aloof,' that's what they used to call Miao, when she was out of hearshot… which was quite far." Zhao smiled. "I think she'd like Weiss. She seemed like a good woman… if in need of a point to relax."

"I think Ruby can melt down the Ice-Queen… though I'm not sure. She's not as frosty and as stuffy as great aunt Miao."

Zhao chuckled. "Don't let her catch you saying that. Not sure if my sister will take it as a competition." He studied the beaker, his expression changing as the greenish liquid seemed to be rolling on its own. "Do you like your teammates?"

"... Do you think Ruby's going to make a good leader?" Yang asked in return. "They're all good people I think, but Ruby's still my baby sister."

"Well, she is still a student. Leadership is as much a skill as it is a trait." Zhao looked up from the slowly stilling green liquid that still glowed faintly of the Dust that made it. "I'm sure Ozpin has his reasons; the man has quite an interesting thought-process. Besides, I know if Ruby has any trouble, you'll keep the team in harmony."

"I'll try, but I think Weiss got straightened out by Professor Port. Blake is just… someone I'm not sure about." Yang blushed slightly. "She's… nice, but I don't know how to make her open up."

Zhao looked down, taking the beaker in his hands after testing the temperature. "You'll find a way. Your father managed to get Raven to open up."

"Blake's not like mom… at least I hope not." Yang smiled before her thoughts turned back a bit. "Still, Miao told me about… about what you dealt with in Cathay… it's been stuck with me for a while."

Zhao's smile frowned as he walked over to where a few plants were growing. Sometimes he liked mixing that stuff in his stuff (Yang could remember the bitter taste of a lot of… homebrewed remedies on the rare times she got sick) "I see. My sister is still a bit focused on the past Yang, but you shouldn't have to worry about it."

"We have to be ready for it though, the book has enough of that and I'm… not sure if I tell Blake or Weiss about this if they'll just think i'm crazy, and if something else comes…" Yang replied. She never saw her Great Aunt like that. Even the book made it clear; they didn't have Aura and they thought monsters like Trolls, madmen and worse.

Zhao shook his head. "Remnant has enough problems to fill your time to avoid worrying over old things."

"Like plants and finding out the Alkahest?"

Zhao tutted. "That's my hobby Yang, and I do it to be productive and…" He paused before letting out a breath. "... So you know what I'm making?"

"Plant Dust in this room so… Fertilizer?"

He beamed a bit. "Well done. But not quite… Well, that is what it is but I'm making something more nostalgic." He poured the Dust-made chemical evenly through the pots and Yang watched as the plants glowed for just a moment before blooming, the faint scent of wet grass.

"Your Grandmother passed away when Taiyang was very young, of an illness that was later connected to working with Dust unprotected… I didn't take it seriously at the time. What was an illness to a Dragon? It should have been easy; I had fought worse things than a simple, mundane illness…"

Yang looked down… She sort of thought of Miao as the closest thing to a grandmother she had but she didn't know much about her. Zhao gently touched the plants as if testing them. "I did what I could, but the solution to the problem frustrated me over and over again, and then Nicholas suffered from the same illness… There was nothing I could do for her before she passed. It was too late to do anything but dull it."

He looked back to Yang for a moment before continuing. "Stay on Remnant Yang; its people are worth more than you know."

Yang gave her grandfather a hug, and he welcomed it for a moment before it had to be broken off. He was back to smiling now. "Alright then, it should be time to practice then… help me clean up a bit here and then we can get to something more fun."

—-

"The Expert Huntress Nora has a dastardly plot, using the grimm as bait to try and capture the other four."

Ruby rolled the dice next, looking at Nora with an amused expression. "I don't think it would work."

"Well I don't want the Grimm to win either." Nora countered. "Grimmtrap is all about making sure that you catch as many Grimm as possible. That's how you win, and you leave your grimm to finish off last!"

Jaune frowned. "Did you say you never played this game before?"

Nora grinned "I got a feel for it now~."

Jaune looked to Ren who just seemed to take it in stride as Ruby moved the Grimm rodent to its place. The Game of Grimmtrap had been going on since Nora had rescued Ruby from the dread of having Wiess 'encourage' her to get started on the next weeks' worth of studying and homework. Or at least that's what Ruby was grateful for. Luckily Pyrrha and Jaune were happening to pass by and Nora made the hard decision to leave Pyrrha with Weiss, while Blake excused herself.

She didn't want to play Grimmtrap though, so she went to the library. Ruby hoped it wasn't because they bothered her too much with that discussion…. Then again Pyrrha had taken the bullet for her with Weiss so maybe she shouldn't complain.

"So, what's Yang doin'?" Nora asked.

"Working with our granddad." Ruby said carefully, though with a smile. "It's a family thing~."

Jaune nodded. "Yeah, family is… something. Mine's a bit more traditional."

Ruby looked at him a bit closer before watching Ren take his turn. The Game was mostly luck based after all, but it meant everyone had a chance of winning, so they could just talk and move. "Is it… nice to live with a family so close to home?" Nora asked.

"It is. I don't think me, and Yang can be apart for long." She shrugged.

"Sisters are like that… well some." Jaune replied, rolling his dice. "Uh… you guys-"

"It's fine." Ren said. "It's… just…"

Ruby kept quiet for a moment. "I'm sorry."

Nora just patted her on the back causing her to yelp. "Hey it's your family. And we need Pyrrha to pass that class."

Jaune shook his head. "She's doing fine there, or at least, that's what she's telling me."

"Grandpa is nice, I'm sure he and Pyrrha will get along fine." Ruby said. Before noticing Nora made it to drop the trap onto her grimm specifically.

"Oh c'mon!"

Nora stuck out her tongue. "Should have been paying attention!"


—-

Zhao stretched, finally happy to be finished with his paperwork. How did his Yuan Bo ever stand it? His brother always was on his back about this; "Zhao Ming, where are the taxes records?" "Zhao Ming, where is the census?" "HOW MANY OGRE MERCENARIES?!" and things of that nature. Zhao wondered if he was being laughed at, wherever he was…

Yang's training and practice went well. The girl wanted to push herself at everything. At times Zhao could see her family in her; Aqshy seemed to resonate with her more than the others, but she tried to understand as much as possible for the school her father had named her after. Still, she spent the better part of the afternoon here, Jiang had wondered just what had exhausted the girl so much.

She took the book as well; Gotrek the dwarf and Felix were heroes of the Old World from what he recalled; Kislev seemed to regard them as so according to some of the old caravans that went out to trade, the Empire saw them as fiction. As for him in his age he'd learn the truth was probably somewhere in the middle… then again books from the Empire and news were strange to get from those parts of the world. Not like Remnant: here in his office, he could watch motion pictures, listen to books, and have photographs of the important people in his life.

And with his work coming to an end, he had a lot he could do now that the paperwork was finished. He could possibly take a short nap, perhaps catch one of those shows some of his employees were recommending? Start a new project? Finish any of his old projects? Actually make a lesson plan for Jiang next week?

No, she usually took care of that herself. She was quite helpful like that. She would have made an excellent Alchemist, but as a chemist and his primary assistant few could match her. Now that he thought of it she volunteered for the closing shift to work on a project herself for some of her 'ordinance.'

He walked out of his office to find the wheelchair bound woman with a few guns held to her head, though she seemed more annoyed than anything, or at least that was her front.

"Hey! You, get on the ground!"

Oh, these must have been those Dust thieves…

Why did they all look the same anyways: all dressed in the same tacky suit, glasses and hats? There were about four of them with those automatic movies he'd seen in some of the motion pictures.

"Are you listening to me?!"

"Oh, I'm sorry! First time in a robbery not sure about all the rules-" Zhao replied, hoping that they didn't notice his hands; otherwise, that would make the surprise, but the man merely jabbed the gun in his face.

"Well, I'd start by getting on your knees or giving us the keys." The man insisted, gesturing with his head to the store displays with his treated Dust. "Any funny moves and we'll turn the chick into paste, understand?"

"I have a name you know…" Jiang said with a bit of a worried tone. She looked to her boss quickly and noted his confidence. His eyes told her everything she needed to know.

"Lay a hand on her and you'll have to deal with me the old-fashioned way."

The goon tried to butt him with the gun, but Zhao grabbed it and used an old trick of his.

"What the fuc-"

Zhao headbutted him as the gun practically dissolved into a reddish brown. Jiang rolled over one's foot and managed to dodge a hail from the other while taking a round object from her purse. Zhao knocked one off his feet and made sure that Jiang managed to take cover and toss the grenade beneath another one's feet, the Ice Dust reacting and causing his feet to be stuck. In panic he tried to break it but ended up slipping and falling on his rear.

Zhao grinned. It had been far, FAR too long since he had a chance to have fun. Sure, it wasn't a fair fight but not like he had much of those. The other two took out swords and already seemed demoralized, about to make a hasty retreat from his reckoning.

"Now, I'm feeling generous; that's why you're still alive. So! You-"

He never got to finish; he never did because for some reason people like them were like cornered skaven and tried desperate to fight against someone who was clearly out of their league. He dodged one blade stroke before causally taking it and using it to block the others, tripping him with his foot and throwing the sword to a wall before doing the same to the other.

All four were unconscious now. "Jiang, call the police. I have a feeling they weren't alone."

"Yessir." She sighed… "Wait, sir what are you-?"

He sent a text message to his sister quickly.

Look what came in tonight!

She'd probably be there faster than the Vale Police Department. "Jiang, c'mon let's take a picture."

Jiang grinned as Zhao snapped a picture, throwing up peace signs while the man grinned.

Heh, still got it. Zhao thought to himself.

—

Miao sat with Ruby in the gaze of the waning moon. Miao remembered the stories some in Cathay spread of how the Moon Empress was the last survivor of the people who lived upon their moon. Mother was… particularly silent and mischievous when it came to direct questions. She wondered at times how her father dealt with it, but she knew the answer now.

Ruby was by her side, trying to figure out Missile Mirror. Ruby had a particular fascination for it; it was useful, admittedly, when hordes of Skaven or barbarians who had the sense to wield a bow were firing upon you enmasse, and there was certainly justification enough against some varieties of Grimm.

And of course, there were some aspects to the Lore of Yin Ruby should not know for her own safety but that should be beyond her level.

"Perhaps," Miao said lightly. "You should practice some other spell? You'll merely tire yourself out at this rate."

"It's only eight thirty." Ruby protested. "I can do it this time?"

"And if you do, how would you even test it?"

"Uh… good point." Ruby winced. "I kinda figured you'd just zap me or something."

Miao sighed. Ruby was still only fifteen she supposed. Practically a baby… still the fact she seemed to gravitate towards one school over the other…

No, she could do more than that. Perhaps Miao was overthinking this. If there were any of her siblings, she was like it was Sheen Zoo, down to the sweet tooth and lovability and she…

She wasn't here. "I would not risk your well-being, and perhaps less important my apartment to help test it… Now, why not just Blossom Wind?"

Ruby frowned. "Won't people question why your balcony is filled with flower petals?

"They vanish after a bit… like your petals."

Semblances… what an odd quirk of this world. Most were unique, some families had them in a bloodline… perhaps tied to their identity. The Lore of Yin attuned one to the soul in a sense, as all magic did… Perhaps that was simply what the grimm and the lack of winds forced, like evolution. Yet she and Zhao possessed Aura…

Her father would have loved Remnant if only to piece together it's mysteries.

"Aunt Miao?"

"Forgive me Ruby. My mind has been wandering as of late; that Dust robbery you stopped, and the shortage talk has my suspicions raised."

"You think grandfather is going to be attacked?"

Miao nodded. "Well, he should be fine. They still haven't' caught the man you spotted robbing the place" Neither had she in fact.

Ruby looked out to the balcony and stood up focusing her aura and mind on the spell. Miao tried to hide a smile as small petals appeared in her hands; still rose petals it seems before Ruby threw. They went far before a strong breeze blew them back in Ruby's face, upon which they vanished.

"Bleh!"

"A good try." Miao admitted. "You always did have a talent for that."

Ruby sighed, adjusting her hair. "C'mon don't make fun…"

"It was a compliment, I promise." Miao said in such a way Ruby wasn't sure if she was teasing her while checking her Scroll as someone sent a message (and there were only so many people who she gave her contacts to) and…

Miao let out a long sigh. "You are excused, Ruby. Make sure you are rested… something has come up."

"Grand-Auntie?"

Miao gave her a half-apologetic look before jumping off the Balcony. "Aunt Miao!"

Miao Ying simply slowed her fall down before looking up from the bottom floor and looked up at the silvery eyes looking down with some degree of worry. "I will see you next week at the same time."

Ruby sighed. "Why is everyone in my family so dramatic?" But she did as she was told, and Great Aunt Miao Ying went on her way to confront her brother while preparing variations of 'I told you so' in her head.

An: So! I'm sorry for the delay; something came up and I was dealing with a Tide of Vermin too. Have a vacation coming up with family too and the holidays...

So anyways i hope you like this one. Wanted to hint at Jaune's connections though. Might not be subtle about it (but to be honest i don't think i was subtle with Weiss) Like i said this part is a bit more down to Remnant, as the Vermintide is not set to come until after this one. Whether certain characters from it show up... maybe but still thinking it through; after all, with so many survivors in the Mortal Realms and on Remnant at this point (and that's not even getting into ideas that started way back in the RWBY fic discussion thread.) i'm not even sure if Archeon would ever live it down.

 

[Yin-Yin Fan]

Mallus, Endtimes

I'll have to be quick; We've all been busy these days and the world and for me that means having favors called in and people asking for them in return. Seems like the world's coming up by its seams and a certain Cousin of ours needs you to rescue someone; apparently some sort of hero-type like yourselves. It's the least we can do doesn't it? Of course, by we, I mean you. All five of you in fact.

The world was ending and here they were going to rescue someone on the word of Bardin's Cousin, as if there weren't countless ways to spend their last few days.

Of course, Kerillian didn't have the heart to say it like that, even now as a Sister of the Thorn. She could feel the Weave's last breaths, and she knew, in some small part, she had played a part in it. She couldn't be fully blamed for it; they had taken her doubts and uncertainties and knew that she merely played a small part in a larger and grander thing than they could have imagined… as had they all.

The five stepped through the Bridge of Shadows and once again felt nauseous as the world went dark blue before they arrived at their destination… it looked like dwarf work to Kerllian's eyes, but it

"So Cousin Okri himself is calling in a favor eh?" Markus Kruber (or De Mandelot. Mayfly names were odd and apparently this situation was caused by the 'quirks') said, looking at Bardin. The Engineer grinned as they started on their path.

"He's probably been having quite a time himself. Least he's keeping in touch." Bardin replied. Hefting his Cog Hammer as the group moved forwards. Kerillian felt a pulse of something, stumbling a bit. Like a Lumberfoot, which of course was noted.

"Are you feeling alright Kerillian?" Sienna asked, the Fire-mage looking at her friend with concern.

"I've been better." She admitted under her breath. "The sooner we're back in the Keep the better."

It wouldn't feel better of course; she could just feel the edges of the Weave fraying. The end was getting closer and closer by the minute… In another twist of Irony she had become a Sister of the Thorn and would be allowed to remember all those closest to her; because they were all going to meet the same fate, in the end.

Journey into the dwarf ruins was oddly quiet; nothing save the sounds of the broken halls of dwarfen make.

"Never had a job this quiet before." Markus murmured. "Least with Lohner. Something horrible happened here before we came in."

"We should be grateful for small blessings, considering the mess." Kerillian replied.

"Aye Wutelgi.. Wouldn't want to invoke whatever caused this."

A mighty battle had happened here. Victor Saltzpyre was already speaking of otherworldly corruption (which considering they all had been to the Wastes was… correct. And obvious to them)

Skaven tried to interfere, but the Pactsworn were broken years ago. It was almost nostalgic to kill clan rats, though these were marked by Clan Eshin. It seemed, in fact, that there were too many of them; it seemed every half-a-moment she needed to lift up a Sneak-rat only to have Bardin and Sienna shooting them in the head. They weren't there for them it seemed.

It should have been quick, but then they came across the rubble deep in the place, with… something in the distance they all tried not to look at. Moving the rubble was made easier by most of their abilities. (Sienna stood by and gave encouragement… and slayed any other skaven coming by.)

When they uncovered the target it was… just a mayfly; blonde of hair and dressed in a red cloak and blue clothing that had seen better days. "Ah, another mayfly, joy."

"Be silent, he's just taking his breaths."

The man was helped up by Bardin and Saltspyre. He wearily looked at them, clutching a book for dear life. "Where-" he coughed violently.

"Easy there Umgi, we're here to help. Cousin Okri sent us."

"Who?"

"Long story, but any friend of Okri is a friend of ours. Now, let's see about getting you out of here without the Raki getting any ideas."

"And… that?"

The rift closed… whatever possibilities there were gone, and the man seemed to have felt as if an opportunity was forever closed to him…

"We have the bloodling with us, now, to the Waystone."

"My name is Felix Jaeger." He said aloud, managing to stand on his own. "How… who are-"

"Nevermind that," Kruber said as Kerillian felt the Weave convulse in pure terror. Eyes widening as she rushed first. The others followed suit as the ruin began to rumble and shake, collapsing and killing some of the rats in their way, the Bridge of Shadows opened around the Waystone, the skies turned blood red around them as they approached as Kerillian could feel the Weave's dying breaths before they entered and-

Something was very, VERY wrong.

—-

The world stopped making sense. Memories and feelings went through Kerrilian's mind; once she thought she heard the voice of Khaine, driving her forward with her being one of his Shades, but that wasn't right, she was a Handmaiden of…. No, she was a Waystalker-

"Move! Forwards!" One Eye called out from the void. There were meaningless directions in this place until she saw it, a moon. Not the False Moon the mayflies called Morrslieb, the proper one, the natural one.

"To the Storm!"

"What? That looks nothing like a-"

Kerillian blinked; it began to shift around. She could hear an urging towards the moon. And She followed. The moon hung over the Waystone and it was their only chance. It would take them where they were needed. Daemons would notice them if they did not get there in time and then her soul would…

The Pale Queen would be better than what waited for her.

Markus thought he was going mad; this was worse than the Skittergate; it made him feel like he was stuck in a small boat in the middle of a horrific storm. The boat-metaphor was further confused as he could see strange ships up in the air that vanished in a blink. He tried not to look too long though, the eyes looked back too.

Now where do you think you're taking them, Lilieth? Didn't you learn your lesson at the Haven? NOTHING ESCAPES FROM ME.

That voice gave all of the Ubersreik Five pause for just a moment as shadows began to lap up on the 'path' behind them. Felix cursed, given what had just happened the last time he heard that voice.

Victor saw it; by Sigmar he saw it! Sigmar himself faced off against the Everchosen as the world crumbled around them. Ghal Maranz, the Holy Hammer itself in his hands. He was calling him. He knew it. Something, the voice of doubt in the back of his mind told him to be more suspicious but Sigmar had provided for his chosen… he had to. "Sigmar, if you have ever heard me before then hear me now. Grant them safety."

It might not have, Victor thought immediately afterwards, been wise to distract the first Emperor of Men but surely Sigmar would dispatch the heretic.

Bardin of course merely saw the reality of it; the silvery light leading them down the path… and yet he felt like it was taking days merely to move, chaos trying to slow their steps to the Elven Waystone. They needed a miracle to pull this off and if they couldn't then it would all be for nothing… it wouldn't be a fitting end for the Slayer (no he was still a ranger and… the Ironbreaker shook his head.)

The Shadows behind them manifested as a shadowy hand, the face of the First Daemon Prince manifesting as they entered the Waystone's range. Sienna prepared a final spell to make her mark but even as his hand pierced it Bel'akor froze as his hand vanished, a look of surprise and pain followed on the daemon's face as the Ubersreik Five (and Felix) vanished from sight.

… So be it. Chaos finds all things eventually.

Besides, he had more pressing matters: one more dead world in the wake of Chaos was not something that needed his direct attention after all… it was time to carve his own Empire once again in a fresh, new reality.

—-

Kerrilian felt profoundly empty for a moment before she realized her heart was still beating and she was breathing. Meanwhile the sun was shining, hidden slightly by an autumn tree.

For a moment she thought as was in Tirsyth the Weave here was so similar to that sad place-

This place had a Weave, sort of. It was in the same way a mayfly (an actual one, but she supposed a human would be a good example) had a lifespan; it wasn't quite as grand as such a term would suggest but it was there. She stood up, balancing herself with her staff. She felt drained and weary, but she was alive. That was good for now.

"Urgh, I think I've had enough of going into weird portals for one lifetime…"

"Kruber?"

The Grail Paladin stood up. "Oh thank the Lady. I thought… I thought you'd-" He paused as he took in his surroundings. "... This ain't Taal's Keep."

"Observant as always." Kerillian was thankful for her mask, it helped to hide the smile. "Not sure where this is but I doubt staying here will help."

"I don't suppose you know where Saltzpyre and the others are?"

Kerrilian looked; they were in a clearing in a forest of eternal autumn. She was initially worried that Sienna would have set fire to the place but she quickly noticed Saltzpyre's armor glinting in the sunlight and the faint scent of Alcohol and steam nearby made Bardin easier to find. Sienna and Felix were nearby. With an exchange of glances she went to help Sienna and their new Mayfly companion while Kruber worked with One-Eye and the dwarf.

—-

Felix was actually enjoying being at peace for a moment. The "Ubersriek Five" were pleasant enough, and the scenery was certainly a change of pace from almost dying in a collapsed ruin. The only thing that was missing was Gotrek.

Granted, upon reflection he doubted Gotrek would already be fuming at running from the fight, even if it was that or certain death. Still, he had been granted a mighty doom; he wasn't sure why this "Cousin Okri" would go back for him…

"Okri's a weird sort; the good kind of weird." Bardin explained. "Can't imagine what goes through his head half the time."

"I see it runs in the family then."

"Aye, that it does Wutelgi!" Bardin agreed. Felix shot a glance at the other humans in the group. The Warrior-Priest looked to be annoyed but… confused at the situation, looking down at his hammers as if there was some small flaw only he could see. The Pyromancer's flames looked dulled as well but he assumed that was normal. The Knight of Bretonnia with a Reikland accent was, oddly, perhaps the most normal.

"So." Felix began. "How did… forgive me? It's a bit hard to ask this… but how did you five meet. It's a bit of a motley group."

"At the Red Moon Inn. Quite a story actually; I was being hauled to a murder trial by Saltzpyre.

Felix nodded for a moment before it actually hit him, which Sienna chuckled at. Saltzpyre sighed. "It was the only way to ensure proper justice would be carried out. I hired Sir Kruber before he found out about his… heritage. While we stayed at the Red Moon Inn for the night when the Rat-men attacked with only the Dwarf and the Elf able to aid us against the horrors…"

"And after that," Kerillian replied. "We were practically stuck together like a tangle of thorns … and with any extras like yourself."

"You have to forgive her, Dawri, ever since she's become half-tree she's been a bit more prickly than usual." Bardin replied.

"For the last time, Bardin, I'm not half-tree! It's… more complicated than that."

She looked at Felix. "It… is a complicated sort of purpose for why I remain with them, though you likely have some experience with that."

He frowned and stared ahead; the endless autumn of this place. It was beautiful; even in all his travels he'd never seen something quite like this.. But that raised the question of where they were. He had half a mind of asking the Wood Elf, but she seemed lost in thought.

"It would be rather easy to set this forest ablaze if I'm not careful." Sienna said with a hint of anticipation that made Felix worry for a moment.

"Let's not push our luck Sienna." Markus replied. "Considering we're wandering in the woods and Taal wouldn't exactly be happy with ya if you set the place ablaze without good reason.'

"Indeed." Victor added, looking to the elf. "We don't even know where we are."

Felix looked around him for a brief moment; it was oddly quiet now; not even the gentle birdsong was there… while uneasy the wind still breezed past them. "I don't know either. I thought this… might have been a Realm of Althel Loren but the Weave here is…"

She trailed off as she looked to the woods, her staff ready. "Something is here."

Felix drew out his sword and the others readied themselves. Red eyes gleamed from the woods as the figures rushed towards them, almost blindly fast. It had the shape of a wolf, but it's body was pitch black like a moonless night, with bone-like protrusions jutting out from it's body.

Kerrilian's eyes widened as a chilling revelation came to her; whatever it was it wasn't related to Chaos. It was an odd one to have as a ravenous demon-like parody of a canine lunged at One-Eye, but she could feel it. It HATED it seethed with raw malice and rage that would have put Coedil's Dryads to shame, unburdened by anything and yet it was completely and utterly… natural.

—-

Carmi liked being stationed at Forever Fall Forest: it wasn't the biggest target in the Great War, but the Grimm were always being a pain to supplies to the City of Vale. Technically speaking she was the last line of defense… well part of it alongside other Valeish Rangers. The Leiber family was a part of Vale for generations and she was proud to do the work here, even if there wasn't much glory to be had. The Valesih Rangers were allowed to continue here to protect Forever Falls natural beauty, but even then they'd probably be replaced by these new Huntsmen types.

She was hunting down some Grimm that had been spotted in the area; nothing too serious just some Beowulfs beginning to show signs of getting smarter… how anyone would decide to wage war while the Grimm still held most of the world was beyond her, but they didn't stop. The King of the Vale had ended the war as little as twenty-two yeats that the war would end soon and kept appealing to the Grimm and for cooperation.

Let's hope it lasts. She thought to herself as she followed a trail of broken branches, her trusty Crossbow at the ready. It wasn't quite a rifle, but she'd been making some adjustments to it so it could make a Goliath wince. However it was then she heard the sounds of steel being battered and the sound of what sounded like a flame-thrower as well as shouts for help. Carmi Leiber ran as she could, Aura at the ready but it did not prepare her for the sight she was about to face.

The first thought that came to her mind was 'how are they still alive?' Which she immediately chided herself on. An older, bald man used what she assumed to be his Semblance to enhance a tall twig of a woman's Aura. She was currently using a pointed stick with a green gem at the end, and it seemed the roots were responding. Another older woman was using fire and seem disappointed that her Semblance wasn't giving her more.

She wasn't quite sure what the squat figure was doing with that odd gun, but he called for them to take cover in strangely accented Valish. The Beowulf seemed to priortize the man who was quickly intercepted by a man in historical costume who's Semblance seemed to make his blade glow and strike a mighty blow.

"What does it take to kill this thing!?"

The last member was blonde and honestly Carmi was almost distracted by him jabbing the ornate blade into the underside of the Beowulf…

Well, the one they are focused on. The other two leapt into action as it dropped, the blade stuck in it as the vertically-challenged old man was tossed aside before he could bring the gun into range. That was when she took her shot, and thanks to whatever gods were watching over these people it struck. One dead in the eyes. The bald-man in heavy armor looked to her, thought she knew for a fact her helmet and face mask would protect her identity for a moment she panicked; fumbling around for the next bolt before he turned back to the Grimm.

"Keep out of the way!" the strange gun the man had made quick work of that Beowulf as well, all of them looking exhausted and it came time for Carmi to think. These people didn't look like they were from Vacuo… if anything they reminded her of historical enthusiasts thought with a fair bit more skulls then she would like in the harsh-looking bald man.

"... Thank you for that." He said. She couldn't quite place that accent either; it sounded almost Argosan but not quite right. He seemed to look her over with one good eye, like he could feel something wasn't right.

"Oh it's no problem," She replied, keeping it safe. "The Grimm are everyone's enemies Ya know."

"'Grimm'?" The lanky woman repeated, "Isn't that what you call One-Eye, Bardin?'

"It's Grimgi" Bardin replied with a chuckle. "'Grimm' has the extra M."

Well that set off alarms in her head, and it seemed 'One-Eye' noticed it too. The Blonde one cleared his throat. "Forgive my companions, they're… eccentric. My name is Felix Jaeger and we-"

"Got lost." The knight finished for him. "Wondering if you could tell us where we are?"

"Forever Fall." She said carefully. "My Name is Carmi, Valish Rangers happy to be of service."

There was an awkward silence there. None of them understood a word she just said which was concerning and she really didn't want to end up on any of those "Weird Tales" stories popping up right about now. "I uh… take it you're not from around here?"

The tall girl with pointed ears and, as Carmi just noticed, black eyes leaned on her staff. "... That is an understatement."

—-

Markus was many things in his life; a sergeant, a mercenary, and a Grail Knight. He'd seen things he never would have thought he'd seen and drank enough ale and brandy to try and forget half of them. Still the first thing that struck him about this 'Valish Ranger'; was the uniform. He wasn't big into fashion aside from hats (but of course what Empire-Man didn't value a good hat?) but he wasn't sure what materials made it up. Her helmet was metal and she had a similar face-covering that Kerillian wore in a light green, leaving big brown eyes peering through a small portion of her face. Her clothing had more pockets than he would have thought necessary and yet was lightweight enough.. Her Crossbow was massive and so were the bolts, looking more like arrows than what he was used to seeing Saltz use before he became a priest.

It actually was kind of funny seeing Saltz and the short-woman trying to out-interrogate the other while they were going to the outpost, she was stationed in. Saltz had a good few year of experience over her while she knew she had more information about this place. 'Forever Fall Forest', was apparently infested with these 'grimm'.. Well she clarified (and said in a tone that sounded like a matron educating the slower of the children) that they were all over the place, Got worse duing the 'War' and now they just seemed intent on making everyone miserable, which was familiar enough to him though he wasn't sure if he'd take the Grimm over the Beastmen…

"So what other places do ya have here?" Markus asked.

Carmi paused, though she gave him a glance. "Well, There's Vale and Vacuo but you would probably know that…"

"While I understand your fear-" Saltzpyre said in his best 'diplomatic' voice which never sounded right but he was trying. "-as you said, we're not from this area."

"Well, my superiors will be the judge of it, sir. You know, you can't be too careful."

Markus couldn't help but notice the Elf seeming to remain quiet which was unlike her. He'd known Kerillian for… Lady and Taal, how long now? He was losing track of time, maybe he should start moderating his drinking, but Kerilian was never far from a snarky comment so either she was being very polite or that… Weave-connection made her realize something.

He didn't think he knew her as well as he would like… she could be a pain in the ass but they were close as she'd let him be. He knew that look too… maybe elves pretended they were different, but he knew that look on her face…

"So, other than Grimm, what else do you deal with?"

"The occasional poacher or trespasser. People say there's more Grimm than people who'd ever been alive, though and they don't like us." Carmi sighed. "Must be nice to not deal with them."

"Are they intelligent?" Felix asked before clearing his throat. "Or something guiding them?"

"Outside of some conspiracy theories and legends no." Carmi sighed. "Well, they're smart in the sense of their cunning. The bigger, older ones know. Sometimes if they get too big or too smart"

"Like Urks hmm, well that's something I suppose. Just shoot the big ones then?"

"If they see you." She replied. Turning to see all of them. "... You've all got that look I've seen in people who've managed to make it back from the front lines. So, I'm really concerned about this… why don't you know what they are and if you really don't know about The Kingdoms… what have you been fighting?"

"Do not." Markus almost jumped at Kerllian's voice. "Tell her about IT Victor."

"Kerillian?" Sienna asked aloud.

"... Some things are better for you not to know Carmi… It would be a cruelty worse than the Grimm."

Felix was about to speak but he kept quiet. Markus could see Carmi working it out, looking at Kerillian as if she was mad but then it hit him and everyone else in the know.

She never heard of Chaos.

No more than that, not even orcs, goblins… just people and Grimm. Victor's mouth was agape for a moment before looking Carmi square in her eyes. "... I will not tell you. The Elf is right, it is not a topic that should be broached lightly."

"... Elf?"

"Yeah I know she's not… wait you don't know what-"

"I mean I heard children's stories," Carmi said as Markus could feel a… sort of existential depression over her and Bardin as she continued. "You know, short people in the woods who help children out with that sort of thing are not… Well, uh… tall and skinny." She seemed to catch onto it too before she cleared her throat. "B-but ya know… Remnant's a big place."

"Remnant? What sort of name is that for a continent?" Bardin asked.

"Oh no it's the.. Planet? No one is sure why but…" She looked to the side and forwards in the hope of avoiding further awkward conversation. "... okay looks like i'm gonna end up on a Weird tales mag…"

"So wait a minute this is… not…" Oh… that explained it… that explained all of it.

—-

Felix and the others sat in the outpost… it was ornate far as those went. A banner hanging out from the front was the only sign of allegiance, though it was far enough into "Valish" Territory they didn't need to worry.

They were across from one another, the six of them unsure of what to make of this situation, trapped in another world. The table had the bare minimum of what could be considered a meal, and yet none of them had any appetite.

"So…" Bardin asked, poking at his own food. "... Think Lohner and Olesya got here? What with the Bridge?"

"We should be more careful about ourselves. Hopefully we can find them but…" Markus sighed. "Well, Carmi's boss doesn't seem like he's dismissing her story."

Saltzpyre looked at Kerrillian. She didn't eat, but she drank water and was not in the mood to speak… which of course was odd even after becoming a Sister of the Thorn. "I will admit I am at a loss about this. Though I trust Sigmar to guide us… You seem worried, Elf."

"What is there to worry about One-Eye?" She responded oddly. "We're only stuck on Lilieth knows where and if there is a home to return to…" She looked away which worried even him.

"Take heart." he said in a gentle… though of course still an authoritative voice. "Sigmar guides the faithful and your… gods guide yours."

Felix wasn't sure about that but… it was something. "It seems to be the will of the gods admittedly."

"Heard rumors about a 'haven' but…" he shook his head. "By the Lady this is just odd."

"We've been through worse." Sienna replied.

The door opened to reveal another man in the same strange clothing as Carmi, the girl following behind him… his face remained Felix of some of his classmates; something just… oddly punchable and dislikeable. short, brown-hair and a muscular stature.

"So, these are the aliens? You sure you didn't just run into historical reenactors?"

"I never said they were aliens sir." Carmi replied with a tone of resigned weariness. "I said they were 'displaced'."

"Whatever rat." He scoffed. "So… who are you, and why the hell shouldn't I have you locked up for trespassing in Forever Fall?"

"We are the Bloody Ubersreik Five… and a guest." Markus barked.

"Never heard of it. Doesn't answer the other half of the question." he replied.

"What has Carmi told you? That we fell out of the sky?" Felix asked.

"And killed a beowulf… apparently had trouble with it despite your Aura and Semblances too." he grinned a bit.

"... We're not familiar with the terms." Victor replied slowly. "However in my line of work it sounds as if you're accusing us of witchcraft."

"Irony of Ironies isn't it Saltzspyre?" Sienna mocked.

"Sir, as I have told you and informed higher command they have an… ignorance of the world." She shot a look of apology to Felix. "To the point that-"

Sir Winchester shook his head. "You're dismissed, I'll have to handle this."

Felix sighed. "I've never been in the military, but it seems a bit rude to ignore her.'

"Oh right because 'Six people wandering in grimm-invested woods' isn't suspicious enough for me to step in?"

"It's understandable,'' the dwarf said diplomatically enough. "But there's no need to be rude to your comrade-in-arms even if you outrank her."

Sir Windchester scoffed. "Look shorty, I don't care much about you or you… freak faunus girl" he looked at Kerrilian who just scoffed. "The beasts like working together ya know, even if she's 'loyal' to the Vale… even then her word is not enough to make me believe it."

"As admirable as your paranoia is." Victor replied, glancing at Sienna to silence any comment. "There are such a thing as extenuating circumstances. Where I in your position I would-"

"Do the same; I'm not exactly trustful of strange people intruding on Vale Territory." he growled. "You're weird… not that weird."

"Depends on what you mean sir." Carmi mumbled before looking over to see something.

'Ello? Is this thing working?

Of course, it's working.

The Commander jumped and Carmi looked around confused… as did Felix.

"Lohner? Is that you?"

Felix was… not sure if hearing voices was healthy but if anyone heard it that was… not comforting.

It is! Sorry, that… events knocked things around here a bit. Sorry about the mess Kruber and… wait where the hell are you?

"Which one of you is doing this?!"

Carmi cleared her throat. "Sir, given they don't know what Semblances are-"

"WOULD YOU BUY ANYTHING THEY TELL YOU, RAT?!"

Oh Dear Lohner said in a voice that was still very relaxed. Well not to worry strangers. Some of the folks that found what's… left of the keep seem to be understanding at least. There's others here too; some Bretonnians, a couple reiklanders… even some halfings. Poor folks won't know what's going to hit their larders. Do you know where the town of 'Lampstead' is? Rubbish name if you ask me but the hospitality is nice.

"That's my home-town!" Carmi shouted which got everyone's attention. She cleared her throat.

"Wait, now I'm pretty sure that a Semblance from a smooth-talking doofus doesn't overrule me!"

"Oh I don't know." Sienna said with a smile. "I've never cared much for people like you. You're worse than Saltzpyre."

Felix stood up and smiled as Saltszpyre continued, looking to see the call to high command Carmi. Another ranger carrying some odd device came in and wanted to speak with the Commander.

"Message sir. A confidant of the King of the Vale."

—-

Kerillian sat outside… Apparently the human king was a good enough talker to get that mayfly off her back. Holding her Staff back in her hand… she remembered holding many weapons in her time, and yet this one was the most tied to her.

Carmi stepped out and sat next to her. "... Sorry about Captain Winchester. You know how people like him can be."

"Aye, that I do." Kerillian replied. She wanted to push her away honestly but… she was worried about this. She got too close to the others. Still, Carmi was…

Well, she was a good shot and while Bardin might have had a point to call her 'thorny' she was better than most other bloodlings… but how much of that came from ignorance?

"He kept calling you 'rat'..."

Carmi's expression hardened. "Look I… I don't know how you came from dealt with it… if we're even there but It's complicated."

She took off her helmet and Kerillian almost braced to use the staff but it was just two mouse-ears.

A mutant? She thought to herself. But no; she wasn't a walking affront to the Weave she was... well as much a part of it as any other bloodling.

"We're called the Faunus. Best to Remnant's knowledge we've been here since humanity was but…"

"I would hide it from One-Eye and the others." Kerillian said quickly before standing up. Carmi's face sank but she remained calm.

"I'm used to it by now. Vale's hardly the worst place to be if you're like me."

Mayflies were always the same, weren't they? There was also something wrong with Kerillian about a lot of what she heard about humans; short lived, smelly, nosy and bothersome. They didn't understand the Weave, save for a few… and yet they managed to live. They could be cruel and barbarous and yet there were men like Kruber… even this 'Felix' was "... So why tell me?"

"... I hope your people will be treated better than mine, Kerillian." She said looking as she heard the clanking of armor as she squished her ears beneath the helmet. "Besides if… if I follow your eyes then Remnant is going to need to be your home too."

Kerrilian was about to speak but… she was right.

The World she knew was gone. And she, no matter how small, had played a role in it. "Thank you." Of course, the thought of her being the last of the Asrai occurred to her (and apparently Druchi but she preferred not to dwell on that) "So, you said you had some sort of vehicle to take us there?" She said, trying not to think about her loss.

"Heh, did your world have airships?"

"Aye we did!" Bardin said as he appeared with the others. "Well, we did anyway. Thunder Barges we called them. Had some smaller ones… always wanted to work on one."

"Well it's still new stuff but it's like that." Carmi said with a smile. "Then we should be there by nightfall."

Kerillian sighed. "Well I suppose I'll have to rely on it if the woods are as infested as you say.

"Grimm are attracted to negative emotions. The Big Ones… they're smart enough not to act on it unless they have a reason to, the beowulfs you met probably… well, can't imagine it went well."

"Any of them that can fly?"

Carmi laughed though it was bitter. "Yep! Nevermores, but most of the aircraft can handle them… of course it's just a transport ship but… I got Needlepoint here." She took her crossbow into her hands.

"Still don't know how you lift that thing." Kruber muttered.

Carmi frowned. "Well… it's uh… tricky to explain considering the witch-hunter right there."

Victor shook his head. "Miss Carmi, there is no need to fear the Judgment of Sigmar's faithful servant."

Felix frowned. "... I would suggest it's some manner of technology?"

"... It's the Result of Aura. I thought you guys were doing it to the Beowulf. It's… an extension of one's own soul. It protects you from wounds but over time…" She shrugged. '"It's not magic, as far as we can tell at least. Besides everything alive here has it and if they're lucky a Semblance that's powered by it." She frowned as a question dawned on her. "... You were hardly enough to deal with a Beowulf or two at least."

"I see…" Saltzpyre said with a sigh. "Well, I will conduct a thorough investigation of it to be sure."

"Oh, is that our ride?"

Kerillian looked up in the sky to see it; it was sort of like the noisy machines that the Dwarfs loved to brag about though… oddly clean running. But it came at some price she was sure. But those who beg couldn't complain, could they.

Kruber whistled as it touched down, and Barin chuckled. "Oh, it's good work for manlings I suppose."

"Heh, yeah." Carmi replied quietly. "Let's hope it's a safe flight."

Kerillian didn't enjoy it; like all human contraptions, if this was how they tried to mimic nature's gifts then they took the wrong lessons. It shook every turn of the wind… but it held together. There were times she knew if it weren't for Mayflies like Markus Kruber, Sienna and PERHAPS One-Eye they'd have all died long ago (and of course the Dwarfs too… for what that counted.) and now here on Remnant…

Victor was praying, or at least deep in thought. They all sat inside with only a small porthole letting light in.

"Elf? You're shaking." Kruber noted.

"Oh shut up. This thing is a steel cage and we're entrusting ourselves to the sky." Another shutter compounded her point.

"Oh c'mon Kerillian, live a little.' Sienna smiled. "Might as well enjoy it."

Kerllian just glared at the Bright wizard. Carmi cleared her throat. "Not a lot of people get to ride in these things. Most are just repurposed military craft. Hear some folks in Atlas still keep'em armed for Nevermores even in civilian flights."

Of course they'd use it for warfare, Kerillian mused. She supposed she should not have expected anything else. Even with an enemy staring them in the face they seemed to conspire to find ways to make war. It was the same with Athel Loren, it was the Same with the humans and the Dwarfs…

And perhaps it would be the same here.

Markus took off his Helmet sighing. "You get used to a heavy plate… eventually." he said.

"Indeed." Saltzpyre replied. "But i'm sure your "Lady" provides you the most basic advantages, as Sigmar does me." he frowned. "Though it is a bit heavier then I remember."

Sienna frowned, looking to Kerillian. 'You noticed it too? During the battle with the beastie?"

"The Weave here is… an infant. Or perhaps in slumber." Kerillian replied. "Nothing to wake it up."

"Considering how homely you made your forest home sound Wutelgi…" Bardin said before stopping himself. "... I'm sorry but this world…"

Carmi smiled briefly. "Uh, was that the… stuff you were doing? The "witch-craft?" "

"Without the Weave, without what they would call the Winds of Magic Sienna can barely conjure a flame."

Felix looked at his blade. "Perhaps that's for the best in some ways…"

"Sigmar is still out there." Victor said, though Kerillian could tell he didn't fully believe it. "It is not magic but faith… and I will endure."

Sienna huffed. "Well, we could still do it… I wonder if this Aura could help us in that?'

"Once the investigation is concluded… perhaps." he frowned. "This world is very much different to ours… and if my suspicions are correct then" he took a breath "My guidance will be needed, as much as arms."

Felix frowned. "Perhaps but… There is much I need to understand first."

"And you, Sir Jaeger? If there is no escape from here?"

"... I have an Oath to finish." Felix replied. "I owe Gotrek that much.."

Carmi smiled. "Old Friend?"

"... I'm not sure if I would call him that. Not because it isn't true, but I've been with him for a long time." Felix replied with a smile of his own. "Throughout it all I was by his side. It was an Oath at first, but he released me… and yet when this… business started I knew I couldn't leave him behind."

Bardin smiled. "Good on you manling. Seems Okri was right about you."

"And you Kerrilian… assuming there's no way to get Home?"

Kerillian frowned and looked to the metal floor. She was a Sister of the Thorn… none of this should have happened. She should be dead… why is she still alive? "And you, Sienna?"

She shrugged. "Well, why not? Explore the world? Bother Victor at whatever he's doing?"

"Hmph, I would expect nothing less."

Kerillian shook her head. "I… Will have to seek out whatever is left of my people, if any."

"It's best not to give up Hope Wutelgi." Bardin replied, though the thought occurred to him as well, as she knew. "Besides we shouldn't take out the possibility of home so soon."

"Bardin I… You're right." She frowned, though she knew the answer. Silence ruled the room for a while before Markus cleared his throat. It was her fault… maybe not all of it, maybe just for her own people but she helped to cause this for… all of them.

"Hey Kerillian, if there's Brettonians there I can finally try out my new accent."

"Kruber…"

"Accent?" Carmi asked with a smile. "Show me!"

"Very Well Madame~" Kruber did, making Kerillian crack a smile. Ah so that's it is it? "I am a knight of Bretonnia, I am ze Lady's Champion."

"Must you bring that here?" Saltzpyre groaned, though the others were smiling.

"I always think-" Bardin said. "It should be more Pompous; you haven't gotten used to it yet."

"Probably, hmm let me see. 'I am ze proctor of the innozent! I am alzays just!" is that right?"

"Almost, better get some practice in."

"I'm not sure you can make it work Sir Kruber." Felix said, the smile tugging at his lips. "Though I'm not sure if this accent is going to be very welcome in… my experience."

"I dunno Kerillian seems to want me to try it in Parravon." Kruber replied.

"Oh well I suppose this will have to do."

Carmi chuckled.. "Oh, the ladies will love you, I'm sure. Least you have a friend there to smooth things over, worst case scenario. I hope the other refugees are alright too…"

"I wouldn't call us refugees." Bardin replied, though there was an edge of weary acceptance. "Not so long as there's just a bit of hope to cling to…"

Kerrilian closed her eyes, knowing the truth of the matter, or at least enough to know. "Still, until you can get back," Carmi offered. 'I'm sure the King will be willing to help. He's reaching the end of his life but... even now the Council doesn't really go against him. He managed to negociate peace between all four Kingdoms."

"Really?"

"Well it's the rumor mill you understand." Carmi sighed. "But no one denies it. Some say he ended it with just one sword stroke. never been a King like him and

"Your king sounds like a good sort of umgi." Bardin replied.

"Is that the word for 'man'? He is of course."

Sienna huffed a bit. "Or he's got a good propaganda machine."

"Maybe a bit of both." Carmi admitted. "But you have to have some hope in things."

"I used to think the same." Kerillian replied. "And look what it got me… I'm still not sure what to think about them."

And yet they… were what could pass for her friends. They were the only ones she had.

She had to make amends to them, somehow.

—

The Keep was still standing.

Technically.

Franz was busy tending to his Emporium of Wonders (and wondering about the exchange rate for Shillings to whatever the hell these folk used) Catiren was… somewhere probably, poor lass. And Olyesia?

Well, she was knocked out cold by that Earthquake, trying to maintain the Bridge of Shadows before it just swallowed up the whole bloody Keep. The Trophy Room was gone, as was "Kerillian's Quarters" which he was NOT going to be happy to explain. At the very least some old paintings and the Statue of Sigmar made it. Everything else was in… working condition. He hoped the Five of them (and their guest) managed to make it and wouldn't be too mad about the entire situation… After all, he could hardly be blamed for it.

Lampstead was still buzzing about in panic; some reckoned there were a couple of moving corpses out there (and fair as he could tell there weren't) and the halflings were… not acting normal. Not even hungry, just shocked and cold. Some of the unlucky buggers in the military died to some of those 'grimm' things that seemed to be attracted to their misery.

They had help from the village patrol at least and then that just led to this. Luckily, Ol' Lohner wasn't one to be underestimated and got the Five on the line (convenient that.) and soon things calmed down. The kingdom of the Vale… the village of Lampstead.

Oh and of course the loud Bretonnian woman and her mountain of a partner managed to keep the others in line. Had some neat amenities too…

Which brought him here having to see that piece of what should have been dwarfen artifice touchdown and the seven get off. "Welcome to Taal's Horn Keep… or what's left of it at any rate." He said with a chuckle, though even then it was forced. He gestured to the village that was beneath it. It was a sort of farming village from what he could tell. Some of the men just came back from the way, apparently circumstances permitting… helped out the lads who managed to make it with them.

"Well, the Keep's seen better days." Markus said first.

"It must have been impressive! How did it even get here?" The lass asked.

"Olesya, our… uh, assistant managed to do it… not even sure how." He chuckled. "So! Townspeople have been welcoming though we've had some issues."

"We're good folks, here in Vale. My name is Carmi, pleasure to meet you Sir…?"

"Lohner, Franz Lohner." he replied. Taking her hand in a shake. "So, you're the Famous Felix Jaeger."

Felix nodded. "I wouldn't call myself famous."

"In the Circles I run in, you and Gotrek were amazing." he chuckled, looking at the five. "They had a lot of catching up to do."

Carmi frowned. "So, the others that are here… where are they?"

"Ah well-"

—

The town was alive with activity, and it was easy to mark out the different mayflies for once. Those on Remnant looked soft in an odd way. Those some were hardened by farm work, and those few she could see as warriors looked at them strangely and steely. The Halflings were Halfings: Shorter than even Bardin and round and yet they looked cold and shaken. Anyone from the empire did as well, and the bretonnians… Well, some greeted and saluted Kruber. The others were peasants or just tried to maintain their pride… Some came to One-Eye to ask for guidance and yet there were no elves or dwarfs…

It was a bitter irony to think Humans would outlast the dwarfs and all of the Elven peoples. Even if they were out there in this world, the Grimm would make short work of them. Even the dullest dwarf would know the world they knew was gone.

The Weave was dead, and Remnant's was but it's palest imitation. They would live here, trying to integrate here but their homes were forever lost. She had helped to jail them here.

Carmi wanted to say something of comfort, but Kerllian could tell words were failing her. Some tried to make conversation but there was a world of difference. Felix was dragged off by a woman who embraced him and wouldn't let go. Kerilian wondered what this King would do, or just what the townsfolk would say or react to what was left over from one world. They were lucky nothing… harm followed them. Franz pointed to what was at best a shanty town that was being set up with the newcomers… It was a marketed difference even for mayflies in that it was just a bunch of camps and tents. A Remnant Couple was talking to a Brettonian Woman in heavy armor and her…

She wasn't sure mayflies could get that big.

"Ah, Monsieur Lohner, these are… those people you mentioned?" The woman asked. Short, black hair in a bowl cut with eyes hardened by centuries of battle… A woman who sipped from the Grail? that was... unusual. Most didn't make it that far.

"Eh bien, au moins l'un d'entre eux est un compatriote bretonnien." The man said.

"Well… more refugees now?" The Remnant man asked. "We're doing all we can to assist you but… Well, this isn't really something we're used to."

"It is fine none of us understand this." Lohner assured. Before turning to the five. "This is our host for… the foreseeable future, Mister and Missus Bysshe."

"It's a pleasure." The wife said. "Though we… I wish it was in better circumstances."

"As do we all, madame." Victor said, before looking at the Bretonnian. "And you?"

"Repanse De Lyonesse." She smiled a bit. "And he is Henri le Massif."

Kruber seemed to stiffen a bit. "Oh, oh by Ze Lady and-"

"... Vous nous insultez ?" Henri asked.

Kerillian stepped up. "Forgive him, he's never quite mastered his accent." She would have to wait for more… appropriate time to have Kruber be beaten by Brettonians… hopefully.

"Oh c'mon Kerillian let the boys hash it out." Sienna chuckled. "Might as well…"

Repanse relayed it to her partner. The two Remnantians (Was that a word? It would have to work for now) smiled nervously. "W-we were expecting, eventually, refugees but we're not sure what to do about this…"

"Vale says they'll help us out but that will take time, until then we… need order to be kept I suppose."

"The little ones have already tried to get the food… not the children, the actual little people."

"The confusion is understandable, why, my ancestors used to think the Halflings were little humans!" Bardin replied cheerfully. "And I'm sure Grimgi will be more than happy to keep the Sigmarites in order."

"And I suppose we can help with the Bretonnians then?" Markus asked a bit too hopefully. Repanse smiled a bit.

"Well, until you have ze accent." She exaggerates her own for a moment. "... The Lady's champions need to stand together."

Kerillian frowned. "What about the Grimm?"

"A-a few of your men did their best but.. We put them to rest as best we could and now we're all on high alert." the man said solemnly. "We… can't do much besides helping you heal and food. We called the City ya see, and they said they would send aid though the nature of this is... unusal."

"Well Wutelgi?" Bardin asked in an understanding tone. "We could try to help… even without that Aura magic."

Sienna frowned. "Not sure either of us could be of much help there, you noticed how… weak you feel even after a few fireballs."

"W-Well." The Wife replied. "You do have the ranger?"

"I'll help, the rest of you… get some rest, and you, mister preacher-man." She said slightly affectionately to Saltzpyre. "Good luck to all of you."

"Go with Sigmar or… whatever you believe in." He sighed. Looking to the shanty town. "We should try to keep the people calm for tonight."

"Aye… and how are you going to do that One-Eye? You're not exactly what I would call... Social."

"I will do my best, Elf." He replied with a nervous smile which set off alarms in Kerllian's head. "Sargent, try and gather as many people as possible to the settlement. Bardin, see if your expertise is needed. Elf, Sienna… do as you please within reason."

Lohner nodded. "We'll all do our parts Saltzpyre, not to worry. We have a lot to do… Well… time to get some work done."

—

The Moon was broken.

Kerillian couldn't even begin to imagine the force needed to do it. As a worshiper of Lileth it pained her to see something so wrong and twisted. The worst part was the mayflies said it was normal, least the native ones did.

What could have gone so wrong?

She stayed away from them in the tents; she was an Asrai and she had no place here… Bardin was acting remarkably cheerful though of course, both were stuck in the same situation…. At least he had the company of mayflies. She did not have that luxury, so instead she sat in what remained of the exit to her quarters, staring at the only thing that could connect her back to anything, the moon and finding even that to be an insult to the Weave. She was never liked by her Kin, or anyone… Now she was truely, and utterly alone. A fate she deserved, and perhaps she would be left to it-

"Kerillian? It's getting late."

Markus Kruber peered at the Broken Moon. "Bloody unbelievable, isn't it?"

"You have no idea, bloodling."

"Repanse herself, in the flesh. Thought she died ages ago, Bretonnian politics is one hell of a topic." he frowned. "I think I'm still scheduled to duel Henri tomorrow, just a friendly match."

"I see." Ah how to get the meat away from her to enjoy the silence… though she didn't mind him as much as the others. Honestly next to Sienna he was remarkably simple. Compared to the others? Practically the one she could tolerate the most. And yet a part of her didn't want him to go.

If nothing else misery loves company.

"Sit down if you wish."

He did, to her irritation. Mayflies…

"... So… I-I'm sorry."

"Don't be, there was nothing you could do."

"I know but I just… I remember when we met, how… hard your eyes look."

"What about it?"

"... never seen them so miserable. Last few days you've been on edge and…" Markus sighed. "Taal, i've been worried sick about you."

Kerillian paused. "I appreciate the concern bloodling but-"

"See you only do that when you're annoyed or miserable… or both but… Just tell me what's wrong and-"

"Kruber, what in the Pale Queen's name am I supposed to tell you?! That the world we know is GONE? That all we've ever done was for nothing, because there is no world to save anymore?" She breathed in. "That all we have left is… just pieces of the Weave, stuck here in a world where it's practically already dead?... Kruber I…"
"... it wasn't for nothing Kerillian…"

The Sister of the Thorn just stared at the broken moon. "So you say. Bardin can hide it all behind his cheerful demeanor, but he knows the truth. I don't even know if i can continue, One-eye and Sienna already have one foot in the grave." That was the problem with Mayflies… "... I failed everyone."

"Don't talk like that." Kruber said too quickly for her to like. "Kerillian… Lady's mercy i don't know how to say it-"

The Lady, she thought. A lie, a tool used to protect the Asrai… and yet she had faith in Kruber…

"Look, Lohner said it himself once; nothing good lasts forever. Every Spring and Summer is followed by Autumn and Winter… that's just life. You're not the only one who lost everything. Those folks… they're scared, they're confused… they just want what's best for their families."

He looked at her sternly. "... If I'm honest, I'm bloody terrified right now."

"Oh really?"

He nodded with all seriousness. "I mean how couldn't you? Saltzpyre is almost going full Flagellant down there. He's STILL preaching but he's got everyone's attention, Bardin and Sienna are getting piss-drunk and she's trying that Dust stuff on a bet, and seems to like it. Felix locked himself in his room and Repanse is… apparently working something out with Henri." he coughed. "Well, everyone's coping with it."

"Ah, well, this is how I cope with it." Kerillian replied bitterly.

"Kerillian, I've seen the look you had since we got here." His voice became sullen. "On my own face a couple of times. I can't… imagine what it's like for you."

"So then why are you trying?"

"Because if I don't then who will?" he replied. "You don't exactly play well with the others… you tolerate me at best."

"Sargent, of all the mayflies I've met you're the most… endearing." She said a bit slowly. "..I appreciate it at least." She wondered if she should tell him the.. Truth of her involvement in all of this.

"Sister of the Thorn becomes… less of the old, more of the new overtime." She explained. "Yet that is in part becoming an extension of the Weave… I was worried that one day I wouldn't even remember you.'

Markus frowned. "Ah so… that's why it's been a bit-"
"Yes, Sargent." She sighed. "... I don't know what to make of myself now. Even the Grimm seem to have some… odd place in this Weave."

He frowned. 'You think so? Thought it might have been a daemon, given it just dissolved." he sighed. "Well might as well try to be a part of this place."

"Don't have this choice in that Kruber." She replied, standing up. "... Thank you. I think I would have missed your little pep-talks the most out of all of them."

Kruber followed suit. "So… what now?'

"Sleep, and given that my Quarters are no longer existent…"

—

Kerillian dreamt and perhaps for the first time in ages they were peaceful. A soft song playing in the background as she finally had peace in a place like Athel Loren. Her home… well, much as she had one. It was missing the Dwarf's Songs, the faint smell of Sienna's flames leaving wisps of smoke. Kruber and One-Eye talking about whatever inane chatter mayflies like them did and -it was about then she realized the point of the dream… an annoying point but one she didn't really regret. Much as Kruber and the others were her friends she just needed this for a moment.

The music got louder for a breath moment; it was sort of like a traditional Asrai tone put with something… else. Something more, something a part of her would have called familiar. Perhaps it was the last part of the gift of her gods. She took comfort in it here in the dream, and when she awoke the next day she would go back to those she cared for.

—-

Five days later.

Franz looked at Felix a bit nervously; it wasn't his first time meeting with… someone of importance (and hopefully wouldn't be the last either.) The keep was not in the best shape of course, but he got his personal favorite pictures out and turned the center into a bit of a meeting place. Olesya was still nursing an apocalypse of a Headache from the backlash but in the Kislevite tradition decided to take it out by being grumpy… lest that wouldn't change.

"So what do you think?'

"... I'm not sure."

"It is no palace, but it will have to do."

"Ah, morning Kerillian! Hope you're finding the new quarters… habitable?

She frowned, or Lohner thought she did. Hard to tell with elves who covered their faces. "It can be at times…"

"Nevermind it then. So… I'll be honest, not sure how this is going to go. Apparently he's been a bit busy with some buisness in Mistral. Now he can deal with… our problem."

Felix sighed. "I've rarely had good experiences with leadership, but the villagers assure us he is a good and just man."

"In my experience uppity mayflies are the common ones." Kerrilian replied. "Perhaps we should give him a good scare if this goes south."

"... Let's save that for plan C." Franz countered.

"Like children! Just keep quiet for an hour." Olesya muttered.

The table was as good as it could be. A seat for her, Kruber, and the rest of the Five. Repanse and Henri (though his non-bretonnian was rather difficult) The Mayor of Lampstead, the Halfling leader.… all the important people she supposed. As the only Asrai able to speak… well, she didn't have much hope but if this King was to have any idea of her people it was best to ask.

This time it might go better, after all.

The past five days have been… interesting. The Halflings were trying their best to integrate and their food was always amazing… oddly it seems the horrors of the Ends Times put them into a kinder, less mischievous mood. The Brettonian Nobles were being kept in line by everyone else, and the Empire mayflies were already trying to keep their culture alive. The Brettonians were much the same of course… Pie week was being considered to be brought back.

Baridn was getting work, but word of even the Imperial Dwarfs were rare, if any survived. Felix had spent his time working on his tribute to his Dwarf friend and spending time with his wife.. Saltzpyre was having heated and entertaining debates with a Priest of UIric, which were bringing the people together in an odd way, and Sienna had been trying to compensate with Fire Dust and apparently it proved to have a similar enough appeal as Aqshy once had to her

Dust made everything more… it seemed. Jade Dust was plentiful here it seems simply due to it being a part of farming. It was the closest she had felt to the Weave in ages. It never lasted of course. Misplacing an addiction did not help after all…

So, when it was time for the meeting to be underway, she wondered how the King thought of it… and yet, when Repanse and Saltzpsyre brought him in she was surprised. He was old by mayfly standards, at least in appearance and yet the eyes… They reminded her of the rare times she met with a tree lord or a dryad. Something that had lived longer than even her. His partner seemed… disappointed in the motley, shocked, even. She was about as tall as Sienna, and yet her eyes were white, her pupils barely discernible. She also seemed to have that same, long lived wisdom, and yet the despair in her face, the tightening of her jaw… she was not happy.

"Forgive me for being a bit late." He said with a loose smile. "These past days have been hectic for all of us."

"Indeed." The woman said, taking her seat. "... None of you are of Cathay, a shame but for any to survive to make it is miraculous on its own."

"I have… no idea what that means but we're sorry to hear." The mayor said with an attempt of a smile.

"Cathay? Grand Cathay?" Sienna asked. "Tried going down the Ivory Road once… but at least someone from everywhere managed to get here."

"I am Miao Ying, R… former ruler of the Northern Provinces, Favored Daughter of the Dragon Emperor."

"Ah that… explains that…"

"Are you alright?" The King asked.

"I'll be fine I hope." he said with a nervous expression.

"So! King of the Vale." Franz Lohner said. "And Miao Ying! Well, Cathay is welcome here too I suppose."

"I have not been able to find any of my family here aside from my Brother." She replied coolly before seeming to stare at Kerillian and then to Bardin. "Though I suppose I am not alone in that."

"Cheerful aren't you?" Bardin replied. "Heard good things about Cathay… not sure if you are a dragon though."

"She is." Felix assured. "We have more… Pressing matters, right?"

Indeed they did. The king was an attentive listener, trying to understand as much as he could about the situation; what to do with the people, the land, how to better integrate them, riders for the Mayor and his family. As much as he could to help, offered almost out of hand with a generosity, Kerillian would have called nativity if she couldn't see his genuine concern. He wanted to help, and would try his best, almost as if he had a similar experience himself once. He even promised to help find any of the Elf or Dwarfs that came to Remnant; Bardin and Kerillian pointed out to him how… isolated their people could be, and while the Grimm made it difficult he assured them they could and would be found… and when the Mayor left the room, dismissed by his King, there was only one thing left on his mind.

"Remnant… is an island of ignorance in a sea of madness." He said quietly. "Miao Ying has told me of your enemies… the countless ones. I have only had to deal with one on Remnant"
"The Grimm?" Markus asked.

The King nodded. "And that… is enough. Ignorance is our only defense and should we meet it… we need to be ready. The Great War of Remnant is over, and perhaps peace… but if the Great Enemy, or any other from any other world were to come to Remnant…"

Silence took the room. "Remnant has enough problems. And if this peace is going to last, I need your help."

—-

Salem strode outside of Evernight; the strange events of the past few nights lead here here, where the Grimm had decided to tear these odd beings limb from limb, creating a mess of decay and gore. It didn't shock her she'd done far, far worse after all, but it was distasteful in the smell and the rot. The bodies of these strange beings were being dragged to her study (everyone needed hobbies after all). These strange squat, dark-haired beings were quite… alien.

She remembered studying the stars, and the idea of life outside of Remnant was interesting, once upon a time, when she was a naive woman, she would have loved to see it…

The grim reality however was before her; Her Grimm tore them apart, and from what she could tell only the crude imitation of a Nuckaleev managed to fell many. And yet why all this effort for this statue? It looked like them, frozen in a permanent grimace put with eyes that almost reflected her own.

It was oddly… cute, what with its stature and large, comical hat. "I suppose I could find a place for this." She mused.

What a time to be alive… She'd have to check to make sure that her Constant Companion didn't find something more than corpses.